Basseterre, St. Kitts, March 4th, 2021 (ZIZ News) Minister of Social Security Hon. Eugene Hamilton has commended self-employed persons who continue to make contributions to the fund to ensure a safe financial future.
Minister Hamilton was at the time addressing the nation on the 43rd anniversary of the St. Christopher and Nevis Social Security Board on February 1.
“I commend also those self-employed persons who remained vigilant and diligent throughout the years, and who can now boast of a pension earned solely from self-employed contributions. The example of your deserving qualification for pensions should serve as an inspiration and motivation for others to do likewise, and to put themselves in a position to proudly extend their hands for their own just rewards.”
Minister Hamilton also used the opportunity to encourage self-employed persons to register and remain up to date with payments.
“On July 1st, 1996, Social Security extended its coverage to the self-employed: a sector that continues to grow despite the economic downturn. I take this opportunity to commend you who are self-employed and implore you to not only register but to remain compliant at all times. Your failure to do so could result in hardships later on in life.”
This year marks the 25th anniversary of the introduction of Self-Employed Coverage.
]]>Basseterre, St. Kitts, February 19, 2021 (SKNIS): Minister with responsibility for Social Security, the Honourable Eugene Hamilton, laid the Financial Statements of St. Christopher and Nevis Social Security Board for the period ending December 31, 2019, before the Federal Parliament on Thursday, February 18, which showed that the institution continues to see positive growth.
“I should Mr. Speaker, point out to the listening public… that the assets of the Social Security Board have grown from one billion, six hundred and thirty-seven million, five hundred and forty-one thousand and fifty-nine dollars ($1,637,541,059) to one billion, six hundred and seventy-four million, one hundred and fifty-seven thousand, eight hundred and thirty-one dollars ($1,674,157,831). In other words, Mr. Speaker, Social Security continues to see positive growth and can boast of assets of 1.674 billion as we speak. That was audited,” said Minister Hamilton, as he encouraged the general public to be “prudent and vigilant”.
According to Minister Hamilton, the financial statements of St. Christopher and Nevis Social Security Board which comprise the statements of financial position as at December 31, 2019, and the income and expenditure account, statements of other comprehensive income, changes in reserve funds, and cash flows for the year, as well as a summary of significant accounting policies were all audited.
“In our [auditors] opinion, the accompanying financial statements present fairly in all material respects, the financial position of the Board as at 31 December 2019 and its financial performance and its cash flows for the year then ended in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS),” the minister noted.
He noted that there are “two things that impact upon the growth of Social Security, of the assets which secure the pensions” for every contributor. Minister Hamilton said that in 2018, the contributions by persons and institutions to Social Security were ninety-five million, six hundred and eighty-nine thousand and eighteen dollars ($95, 689, 018) and it has since grown to ninety-nine million, five hundred and ninety-eight thousand, five hundred and fifty-two dollars ($99, 598,552) in 2019.
The Social Security Minister updated the public on the long-term benefits paid out in 2018 including elderly grant refund, survivors’ pensions, invalidity pensions, age pension, and age grants.
“In 2018, we paid seventy-five million, seven hundred and sixty-four thousand, six hundred and seventy-seven dollars ($75, 764, 677) and in 2019 we paid out eighty-four million, five hundred and thirty thousand and fifty-nine dollars ($84, 530,059),” he said. “Overall payout in 2018 was 92.7 million, but in 2019 was 102.9 million.
Important to note is that benefits paid out exceeded the contribution income of the Social Security in 2019. Minister Hamilton said that in light of this, the institution was able to “curb administrative cost” which stood at 13.4 million in 2018. It was reduced to 12.2 million in 2019.
]]>BASSETERRE, St. Kitts, February 17, 2021 (Press Unit in the Office of Prime Minister) – Prime Minister Dr. the Honourable Timothy Harris has publicly lauded the management and workers of John Boy Construction – the small sized construction company that delivered the beautiful edifice that is now the multi-purpose Lodge/Ottley’s Community Center.
Prime Minister Harris, who is also the Parliamentary Representative for Constituency #7 in which the new community center lies, noted that John Boy Construction, led by its Manager Mr. Dwight Berry, completed the project within reasonable time given the setbacks and lockdowns associated with COVID-19.
“It was one of those few projects where I saw the contractor put his heart in it. He wasn’t just leaving it for the persons working on the project – the carpenters, the masons, and their supervisors. [Mr. Berry] was here every day supervising this project and I want to thank him for that,” the prime minister said.
Dr. Harris added, “When we did a site visit, [Mr. Berry] said ‘I always wanted to do something like this’. His dream was to be able to get a significant project and show the world what he could do. He has done an excellent job and he now can boast that he has delivered a $3.2 million project and it is of excellent quality.”
Prime Minister Harris said he was most impressed by the fact that John Boy Construction was able to successfully complete the project within the contract amount, noting that he hopes this project would lead to even greater opportunities for the small contractor.
“What is important too is that [Mr. Berry] is not afraid of competition. Ms. Davis, the engineer who spoke, said that four persons were shortlisted to bid but John Boy Construction emerged as the best one when they considered the price and time to do the job. So, when we have big projects please remember him,” Prime Minister Harris remarked.
Commendations for the work of John Boy Construction on the successful completion of the project also came from the Minister responsible for Social Development, the Honourable Eugene Hamilton.
Minister Hamilton stated that, “They have put in so much to construct this magnificent building. They have ensured that the building is structurally sound that it can withstand hurricanes of recent vintage and other natural disasters. They have ensured that this building is esthetically pleasing. It is a true testament to the skill sets that we have right here in our small Federation.”
The $3.2 million Lodge/Ottley’s Community Center project was jointly funded by the Government of St. Kitts and Nevis and the Republic of China (Taiwan).
It is accessible for differently-abled persons and boasts two spacious recreational hall rooms, an office area, a kitchen, a multi-purpose room, a library, mechanical room, a gallery and two bathrooms.
The new center will also serve as a hurricane shelter with an underground cistern for water storage and a 60 KVA generator.
]]>CHARLESTOWN, NEVIS, February 8, 2021 (MMS-SKN) — The St. Christopher and Nevis Social Security Board, which is celebrating its 43rd anniversary, is one of the organisations that have been uniting the people of the two islands and is the strongest in the region, but with time it is facing challenges which call for a new vision.
Federal Minister with responsibility for Social Security, the Hon Eugene Hamilton, has said that the institution which has helped to provide incomes for persons over the age 62 who are retired and without income is presently paying out more than it is receiving in collections. To remedy the situation he has strengthened the institution’s Board by appointing persons with strong financial skills who will ensure that its income is greater than its expenditure.
“Social Security has its challenges, and it calls for a new vision,” said the Hon Hamilton on Sunday February 7. “Let me explain to you what I mean: When this institution started in 1978, the first year it operated, there was $3.3 million dollars in collection. There was only $174,000 in benefits paid.”
In contrast, the Social Security Board received $99.6 million as collections in 2019, but the benefits paid were $101.4 million.
“What does that say to us?” posed the Honourable Minister. “That says to us that we have to take a closer look at the way the institution is heading and cut a path that brings this institution to the point where income is greater than expenditure. That basically is what it calls for us to do if we are to ensure that some of you young ones who are paying social security now get a benefit when you get to age 62.”
The Hon Hamilton who is also the Federal Minister of Human Settlement, National Health Insurance, Ecclesiastical Affairs, Social Development and Gender Affairs, made the remarks at a thanksgiving service held at the Shiloh Baptist Church in Charlestown, Nevis, in celebration of Social Security’s 43rd anniversary.
The service was also attended by Prime Minister Dr the Hon Timothy Harris who is also the Federal Minister of Finance.
“It is why I have strengthened the Board of the organisation with persons of important financial skills to be able to help us to get on that road, so that again, we can see the organisation lengthening its life,” pointed out the Hon Hamilton. “That is the mission.”
The St. Christopher and Nevis Social Security Board was represented at the service by its chairman Mr Ernest Pistana, along with members Mr Frank Farrell, Mr Faron Lawrence, Ms Dorita Rowland, Ms Jennifer Williams, Mrs Candice Dickenson-Caines, and Mr Carl Claxton.
Management and staff were represented by Director of Social Security Mr Antonio Maynard, and Deputy Director of Social Security Nevis Branch Mr Vernel Powell, and Management and Staff in the Nevis branch office. The sermon was delivered by Pastor Wayne Maynard who dwelt on the building of a secure future based on teaching from Psalm 78. Deputy Director Powell presented a monetary donation, on behalf of the Social Security Board, to Pastor Maynard.
“This is a period when we have to pay attention to what Covid has done to us,” advised the Hon Hamilton. “In 2020, January the total wages in the Federation were about $85.7 million dollars, by October it went down to $58.1 million. One shock from Covid reduced the revenue base in the entire country from $85 million to $58 million, so we have to be thrifty in our approach. This is why I have charged the Board with the responsibility to pay attention and to make sure that this institution remains strong as we go through the 2020s providing benefits to those who are in need of benefits.”
In spite of the challenges, Minister Hamilton assured that the St. Christopher and Nevis Social Security Board remained the most prolific contributor during the period of Covid, as it paid out over $8,500 persons from a stimulus package during that period. It paid a total of $22,739,441.94 in stimulus package in the months April, May, June, and September.
“Today as we celebrate 43 years, we celebrate an institution that despite all of the challenges it is the strongest in the region with $1.6 billion in assets,” advised Minister Hamilton. “There is no other Social Security institution in the region that can compare with the one that we have in St. Kitts and Nevis, and I want to applaud all those, over the many years from the first Board to today that have contributed to the strength and to the development of Social Security.”
He also thanked members of the staff who have worked hard to put the St. Christopher and Nevis Social Security Board in a position where it is stronger than the rest in the region.
“We are not taking it lightly because my first principle is thrift even when the going is good, because there are some days when it is going to get bad,” said Minister Hamilton in conclusion. “So I am asking, those who administer Social Security to recognise that and exercise thrift, and I am asking you in your homes to also exercise thrift.”
]]>Basseterre, St. Kitts, February 4th, 2021 (ZIZ News) Minister of Social Security Hon. Eugene Hamilton has commended self-employed persons who continue to make contributions to the fund to ensure a safe financial future.
Minister Hamilton was at the time addressing the nation on the 43rd anniversary of the St. Christopher and Nevis Social Security Board on February 1.
“I commend also those self-employed persons who remained vigilant and diligent throughout the years, and who can now boast of a pension earned solely from self-employed contributions. The example of your deserving qualification for pensions should serve as an inspiration and motivation for others to do likewise, and to put themselves in a position to proudly extend their hands for their own just rewards.”
Minister Hamilton also used the opportunity to encourage self-employed persons to register and remain up to date with payments.
“On July 1st, 1996, Social Security extended its coverage to the self-employed: a sector that continues to grow despite the economic downturn. I take this opportunity to commend you who are self-employed and implore you to not only register but to remain compliant at all times. Your failure to do so could result in hardships later on in life.”
This year marks the 25th anniversary of the introduction of Self-Employed Coverage.
]]>Basseterre, St. Kitts, February 01, 2021 (SKNIS): St. Christopher and Nevis Social Security Board is celebrating 43 years of service to the Federation’s population, today, Monday, February 01, 2021.
The occasion was marked by Minister responsible for Social Security, Honourable Eugene Hamilton, who delivered a national address on Monday (February 1, 2021) highlighting the past, present and future prospects of the insurance scheme.
He noted that the number of contributors in 1978, the first year of operation, stood at 12,119 persons with $3.3 million contributions collected. In 2019, those figures rose considerably with 30,437 contributors with $99.6 million in contributions collected for the period.
“You should all be well aware, that our Social Security Fund holds a reserve of $1.6 billion,” Minister Hamilton said in his address. “It remains a strong and resilient safety net for the thousands of workers who contribute to the fund weekly, and monthly, as the case may be, in preparation for timely response to their various contingencies, and very importantly, for the assurance of a secure source of income in their retirement years.”
In order to secure the future, the Board is considering the current structure of the programme and several reform measures.
“There is a common-sense obligation upon us, to look at the best model of benefits and contributions, the best model of investment and the best model of administration; to implement reformed models of contributing to the fund base and of providing benefits,” the minister stated.
Honourable Hamilton added that “The goal is to develop and implement the best model, one that will serve the people who benefit now and one that will serve those who will be relying on Social Security for future benefits.”
Wide-ranging consultations on reforms will be held with stakeholders including experts in the field and the general public.
Fellow citizens, and residents, as Minister of Social Security, I am honoured to greet you on the occasion of the 43rd anniversary of the St Christopher and Nevis Social Security Board, observed today Monday 1st February 2021.
It was Act No 13 of 1977, and all of its attendant and related Regulations, which provided the legal framework through which the policies and operations of the Board, give life to its mission, “to provide the best possible benefits to all eligible persons, guaranteed by sound financial management and efficient administration.
Since the 1st of February 1978, Social Security has remained true to its mission to serve all citizens and residents of our Federation, by providing its varied complement of benefits, as well as. through its far-reaching corporate social responsibility programs.
In 2020, Social Security played a vital role in sustaining the economy of St. Kitts and Nevis, during the crisis brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, with its rollout of the COVID-19 Relief initiative.
Over 8500 persons were provided with the COVID-19 fund grants, which served as stimulus payments in respect of the period, April to June 2020 in the first instance, and again in September 2020. This was a significant complement to the overall stimulus regime, orchestrated by our Team Unity government, as its initial early response, to the financial challenges facing so many of our people, when international and local commerce and industry, began to buckle, under the weight of the pandemic.
This support, (unmatched by any other institution), was instrumental in keeping our economy afloat and provided much-needed support to the insured populace.
To date, a total of $22 739 441.94 has been disbursed to registered insured employees and the self-employed.
This level of support is unprecedented, and I am advised, that it has been the only one of its kind across the region.
It underscores the importance of Social Security as a crucial social safety net and fundamental economic pillar of our society.
Indeed, it also bears out our mantra that Social Security touches lives ‘from the cradle to the grave.’
Despite the many challenges that we face as a country, as a region and globally, we are resolute nonetheless in our quest, to ensure that our Social Security Fund, which has been cited as being the strongest in the OECS, continues to stand firmly and reliably in the gap, as it assures guaranteed protection for our people, as well as being a source of economic resilience for our country, as a whole.
You should all be well aware, that our Social Security Fund holds a reserve of $1.6 billion dollars.
It remains a strong and resilient safety net for the thousands of workers who contribute to the fund weekly, and monthly, as the case may be, in preparation for timely responses to their various contingencies, and very importantly, for the assurance of a secure source of income in their retirement years.
As a mature fund now 43 years old and serving the entire nation through the provision of pecuniary payments for short term benefits such as sickness, maternity and funeral grant; the long-term branch comprising of age, invalidity and survivors pensions; and the employment injury branch; we are mindful that the time is now upon us, to effect those changes that will support the Fund’s long term viability.
There is a common-sense obligation upon us, to look at the best model of benefits and contributions, the best model of investment and the best model of administration; to implement reformed models of contributing to the fund base and of providing benefits.
Needless to say, this will entail continuing consultation with all stakeholders (as we have been doing over the past years)….with the various sectors among our people….with experts in the field, and of course with our hard-working practitioners.
The goal is to develop and implement the best model: ….one that will serve the people who benefit now and one that will serve those who will be relying on Social Security for future benefits.
As the year progresses, Social Security will ramp up its discussions on matters pertaining to reform.
The year 2021 is also the 25th anniversary of the introduction of Self-Employed Coverage. On July 1st, 1996, Social Security extended its coverage to the self-employed: a sector that continues to grow despite the economic downturn. I take this opportunity to commend you who are self-employed and implore you to not only register but to remain compliant at all times. Your failure to do so could result in hardships later on in life.
I commend also those self-employed persons who remained vigilant and diligent throughout the years, and who can now boast of a pension earned solely from self-employed contributions.
The example of your deserving qualification for pensions should serve as an inspiration and motivation for others to do likewise, and to put themselves in a position to proudly extend their hands for their own just rewards.
As we move towards the future, it is important to reflect on the past and to take account of a few key indicators of our progress.
Allow me to highlight the following:
The figures I have outlined magnify the scope of work of Social Security and represent support to the insured in times of need.
In short order, we will be publishing the 2018 and 2019 financial statements on the website of the Social Security Board.
This increased level of access and transparency will provide all with a first-hand look at the operations of Social Security over the past couple of years and into the future
As a socially responsible corporate citizen, Social Security continues to make its mark in Education, Housing, Healthcare and National Security.
This level of national investment has rewarded us bountifully and can be seen in the increased number of trained professionals, improvement in our housing stock, greater efficiencies in healthcare, and reduction in the level of crimes.
We are confident also, that this support has in fact trickled back into social security, as contributions from employers and the self-employed, and has added great value to our overall performance as an institution.
As we say goodbye to our 43rd year of operation
and embark upon our 44th, we applaud the work of the forefathers of Social Security, former Ministers, Boards, Directors, Staff and Contributors…and all presently serving in their various capacities…. all who have played and those who are continuing to play a role in securing Social Security.
In that regard, (by way of reflection) I make special mention of the late Messers Richard Llewellyn Caines (former Chairman of the Board)…..Douglas Washington Richardson (the last surviving member of the first Board of Directors in 1978) who transitioned to glory during the past year 2020. Their services are remembered along with the services of all others.
Throughout this anniversary observance, we welcome you to support the activities of the Board including
Corporate Worship
Sunday 31st January 2021, Antioch Baptist Church on St. Kitts (9.30 am)
Sunday 7th February 2021, Shiloh Baptist Church on Nevis, (9.00 am)
Employers Forum
Monday 15th February 2021
Panel Discussion – The Road Ahead: Social Security Reform
Wednesday 24th February (live ZIZ TV and NTV 8 PM
These activities are meant to provide the opportunity to give God thanks for his continued mercies and to engage the public in our ongoing consultative dialogue. I entreat the general public to pay keen attention to social security matters not only in St Kitts Nevis but around the region and the world.
Indeed, we can learn much from the experiences of others even as we share our own with them.
I speak of such institutions and entities as:
We, should all be aware, that these institutions and partners are well-positioned, to lend valuable support to our efforts at making our Social Security more meaningful and purposefully.
This has great significance, especially at this constantly evolving period in our development, when we, are at the cusp of implementing other very important social safety nets for the protection and enhancement of the lives of our people.
As we step into what can be considered to be a new chapter in the annals of our institution, we look forward to 43 more years of yeomen service to the people of this great nation. I wish us all an enjoyable and productive observance…. and I pray God’s continued blessings on Social Security and upon us all.
]]>BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS, February 1, 2021 (MMS-SKN) — The Moravian Church St. Kitts Conference on Friday evening January 29 held a special ‘appreciation and farewell’ service, which was an evening of songs, solos and spiritual expression dubbed ‘Our Tribute’, at the Zion Moravian Church in Basseterre, in honour of Reverend Hilton Joseph and his wife Sister Sharon McCardy-Joseph.
Rev Hilton Joseph who is the Superintendent of the Moravian Church St. Kitts Conference and Pastor of the Zion and Bethel Pastorate, and who is originally from Antigua and Barbuda, has accepted a call to serve as the Pastor of the Spring Gardens Moravian Church in Antigua effective March 1, 2021.
The service was attended by Prime Minister Dr the Hon Timothy Harris, Deputy Prime Minister the Hon Shawn Richards, Minister of Ecclesiastical Affairs et al the Hon Eugene Hamilton, Cabinet Secretary Mrs Josephine Huggins, Accountant General Mr Levi Bradshaw, and other senior government officials.
The colourful evening’s proceedings which were led by Rev Onita Samuel-Warner and Rev Adelyn Binta Mgonela were held under the broad sub-theme from Matthew 5:17 ‘Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine’.
In the ‘Thanksgiving and Gifting’ section of ‘Our Tribute’, representatives from all the Moravian churches in St. Kitts, and the Moravian Church St. Kitts Conference came bearing gifts which they presented to Rev Hilton Joseph and Sister Sharon McCardy-Joseph.
Bethesda/New Dawn Moravian Church in Cayon was represented by Sister Verna Lewis, Ebenezer Moravian Church in Mansion was represented by Brother Levi Bradshaw, Bethel Moravian Church in Parsons Ground was represented by Sister Ileta Barnes, home church Zion Moravia was represented by Sister Emelita Warner-Paul, while Sister Sherlene Johnson and Sister Jamilla Connor represented the Moravian Church St. Kitts Conference.
Brother Levi Bradshaw who represented Ebenezer Moravian was wearing two hats, as he also expressed sincere appreciation and thanks to Rev Hilton Joseph and Sister Sharon McCardy on behalf of the Accountant General Department, Ministry of Finance, Government of St. Kitts and Nevis. Mr Bradshaw serves as the Federation’s Accountant General.
“Sharon was a member of the staff of the Accountant General Department, Ministry of Finance, for the entire time of her stay here in St. Kitts and she was a valuable asset to the Ministry of Finance, Debt Management Unit,” said Mr Bradshaw. “So I just want to express my thanks to both of them – I wish them well in their future endeavours.”
In response, Rev Joseph noted that as a newly married couple hopeful in God, they had embarked on a journey to a new territory called St. Kitts and Nevis in July 2008 without a clue what was before them, but they decided to trust God where they could not trace Him, which they made the default setting of their lives over the years.
“As a result our lives are better today, and we give God thanks in everything,” said Rev Joseph. “Therefore, tonight is about the sovereignty of God – of a God who has led us and enabled us on this journey to be conduits of His grace, His mercy, and His love.”
Sister Sharon McCardy-Joseph told the congregation that they have been privileged to have entered the lives of a wide cross section of persons from every strata of society, pushing on to become better for God.
“We have been honoured to have been a part of this nation building,” said Sister McCardy-Joseph. “We realise now that God had strategically placed us to have been an influence for Him and for that we give Him all the glory. Our hands have been healed, our feet have been healed, our minds have been healed – in Him we move and breathe and we are grateful to be His vessel and to be used as He desires.”
Rev Joseph thanked his family and friends who had become family, the Executive Board and the organisers of ‘Our Tribute’ event noting that they were indeed humbled by the details, sense of the preparation, and sense of the energy that would have been put in to make it a reality.
“My esteemed colleagues, the members of this powerhouse of a Moravian Church St. Kitts Conference, the gracious Government and people of this Federation, we say thank you,” said Rev Joseph, as Sister McCardy-Joseph added: “Thank you for welcoming us into your space and enabling us to work in this part of God’s bountiful vineyard.”
Jointly, Rev Joseph and Sister McCardy-Joseph declared: “Our bodies will leave but our memories remain and we say, God bless you all and God bless Liamuiga, this fertile land of St. Christopher and Nevis – oh Land of Beauty!”
At the end of the service, Rev Hilton Joseph prayed for Reverend Erwin Warner who will serves as the acting Superintendent of the Moravian Church St. Kitts Conference and continue as the Pastor of the Bethesda/New Dawn Pastorate, Reverend Onita Samuel-Warner who will serve as the Pastor of the Zion and Bethel Pastorate, and Reverend Adelyn Binta Mgonela who serves as the Pastor of the Ebenezer Pastorate.
]]>Basseterre, St. Kitts, January 22nd 2021 (ZIZ News) A launch ceremony was held on Friday at the St. Johnston’s Community Center.
CEO of The Cable, Pat Walters explained that the St. Johnston’s Community Center is the first to receive the service and the roll out of this initiative to all 16 community centres is expected to occur in the next 2 months.
“Within the next two months we will be rolling out to McKnight, Victoria Road, East Basseterre, St. Peters, Conaree, Keys, Cayon Lodge, Tabernacle, St. Pauls, Sandy Point, Fig Tree, Half Way Tree, Trinity and Challengers, 16 Community centers.”
She said providing persons who wouldn’t otherwise have access to the internet the opportunity to access it far exceeds the monetary value of providing the service.
Minister of ICT, Hon. Akilah Byron-Nisbett said this initiative gives community centers the potential to become “mini innovation hubs”.
“This level of access can see our community centers transform into a resource that allows programs geared towards business development, education assistance through after school programs, a meeting venue for small businesses, a place for virtual presentations or meetings. This type of access in our community centers have the potential to transform our community centers into mini innovation hubs, a place where we can see the emergence of new tech businesses or any type of business.”
Minister with Responsibility for Community Development, Hon. Eugene Hamilton described the initiative as significant and congratulated the Cable team for undertaking the project.
“This is a significant achievement and I want to congratulate Cable tv for this significant gesture in every community where there’s a community center….Every child today can benefit from these services, will have access to be able to learn without there being a teacher at your table, access to be able to create and apply what you create so that others around the world can tap into what you’re doing and you can even make a significant living from it.”
The Chief Technical Officer, Yehoshu’a Melchizidek said that the speed of the internet that will be provided at each community center will be in excess of 100mb.
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BASSETERRE, ST. KITTS, January 17, 2021 (MMS-SKN) — While congratulating the Catholic Diocese of St. John’s-Basseterre on the occasion of its 50th anniversary, Prime Minister Dr the Hon Timothy Harris has pointed out that the Church has been an important partner in the government’s efforts at socioeconomic development of the country.
“The Church is playing an instrumental role in the development of the country,” said Prime Minister Harris on Sunday January 17 at the end of a special Eucharist celebration for the 50th anniversary of the Diocese of St. John’s-Basseterre held at the Immaculate Conception Co-Cathedral, East Independence Square, Basseterre.
“The Church has been always an important partner in our efforts at socioeconomic development – adding value to the lives of people, providing inspiration, providing a sense of self, and a sense of place in their world,” noted Dr Harris. “And for all that the Church has done in the development of the people, we want to send heartiest congratulations of the Government and people of St. Kitts and Nevis to the Diocese on the occasion of its 50th anniversary and pray that it will continue to grow from strength to strength.”
The Honourable Prime Minister noted that the Catholic Church has a very loyal membership and a wide following, which has been a blessing in many respects. He pointed out that it has a very effective and strong social outreach which has helped in the area of education and has helped many people especially those who have been disadvantaged in one way or the other.
“We meet this morning to thank God for having been with this Diocese for the past 50 years,” said Immaculate Conception Parish Administrator, Father Lawrence Malama, who delivered the sermon. “So we thank the Lord for keeping us, and we ask Him also to guide us as we begin again another year of proclamation of the Word.”
Father Malama told the congregation that with the celebration of the anniversary, the Diocese is celebrating the Church’s contribution to the nation. He observed that many people in St. Kitts went through the former St. Joseph Roman Catholic School, and the St. Theresa Convent School, which have since been amalgamated to form the Immaculate Conception Catholic School. He noted that was one of the contributions made by the Catholic Church.
“We are involved in teaching, we are involved in hospitals – we are involved in so many areas,” he added. “We supplement what the governments do in so many parts of the world. So we believe that it is not just preaching the Word. We also believe in action, being able to reach out to the poor people – there are so many different areas that we out to. We take care of the orphans, we take care of schools, we take care of hospitals, maybe we do not have a hospital here (but) one day we will have that hospital, God willing. This is how the church works.”
During the service, Father Malama blessed and prayed for Mr Kenneth and Mrs Dorothy Martin who are celebrating the 63rd anniversary of their marriage.
“My heartiest congratulations to them,” said Prime Minister Harris. “63 years is near a full life – given three scores and ten. For their marriage to have survived speaks of their character, speaks of their commitment to each other, and in life they are role models and they have become role models for citizens and residents of St. Kitts and Nevis. I was happy to have been there to witness them, and to see them so lovingly together.”
Father Courage Dogbey recently of the Archdiocese of Accra, Ghana, who will be assisting Parish Administrator Father Lawrence Malama in the Parish of Immaculate Conception in Basseterre and the Parish of Holy Family in Molineux, read the message from Bishop Robert Llanos who is based in St. John’s, Antigua.
Ms Shanise Hazel, President of the Parish Council, explained that the Diocese of St. John’s-Basseterre covers two independent countries, Antigua and Barbuda, and St. Kitts and Nevis, and three dependent territories, Anguilla, Montserrat, and the British Virgin Islands.
The main Cathedral and the residence of the Bishop are located in St. John’s, Antigua, while St. Kitts and Nevis hosts the Co-Cathedral in Basseterre.
“We are the Co-Cathedral here which also has a seat for the Bishop,” said Ms Hazel. “The Diocese is named after the seat of the Cathedral and the Co-Cathedral and so the other members of the Diocese, Anguilla, Montserrat and the British Virgin Islands are part of the Diocese of St. John’s-Basseterre which was established in January 16, 1971.The Diocese of St. John’s-Basseterre is part of the Province of Castries and the Antilles Episcopal Conference (AEC).”
Accompanying Prime Minister Harris for the celebratory mass for the Diocese’s 50th anniversary, which was also a celebration of the second Sunday in ordinary times, were the Minister of Human Settlement et al the Hon Eugene Hamilton, and Deputy Speaker Senator the Hon Dr Bernicia Nisbett. Also joining in the congregation included past and present teachers of the Catholic schools and their students, and parishioners.
]]>Basseterre, St. Kitts, January 15, 2021 (SKNIS): The Federal Cabinet in St. Kitts and Nevis is establishing a committee to provide advice on the implementation of Universal Health Insurance.
The move is the latest step by the government to introduce a robust insurance programme that would provide quality health insurance to the population. The initiative is a costly venture as estimates place the price tag between $143 million and $181 million.
“Consideration may have to be given to salary deductions from individuals. In other words, how it is going to be funded, what benefits are we going to provide, when will it start—the legislative framework upon which this should stand. Those are the things which will come from a new committee put in place this year to ensure that Universal Health Insurance becomes a reality,” said Honourable Eugene Hamilton, the Minister responsible for National Health Insurance.
The minister’s comments were made at the Prime Minister’s Monthly Press Conference on January 14, 2021, at the NEMA Conference Room. He said that the expectation is for UHI to be implemented shortly after the committee completes its work. The minister reminded citizens that the country and other nations around the world continue to grapple with the economic fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic. This has influenced the measured approach being taken by the government.
“We are very cautious, we are careful, we are very deliberate in what we do in implementing Universal Health Insurance,” Honourable Hamilton stated.
The enormity of introducing such a comprehensive and transformative programme was compared to other historical, landmark decisions such as purchasing plantation lands, introducing a Citizenship by Investment Programme, constructing the then Southeast Peninsula Road which is now known as the Kennedy A. Simmonds Highway, and establishing a Social Security Fund.
Minister Hamilton said that these decisions were ahead of their time and have positively impacted the development of the country.
“Universal Health Insurance is in that category,” he expressed while calling on the public to fully support the programme.
]]>Basseterre, St. Kitts, January 15, 2021 (SKNIS): The Department of Gender Affairs is receiving full support by the Minister responsible, the Honourable Eugene Hamilton, says Director of the Department, Celia Christopher while appearing on the radio and television show “Working for You” on January 13.
Mrs. Christopher said that she also had the opportunity to work with the former Minister of State responsible for Gender Affairs, the Honourable Wendy Phipps and got full support from her as well.
“I’ve gotten full support where gender concerns are conveyed to Honourable Minister Phipps,” she said. “As a matter of fact, she goes out of her way to ensure that we meet all our obligations.”
The Director of Gender Affairs said that Minister Hamilton ensures that he keeps in touch with the department and has arranged a meeting between the Department of Gender Affairs on Nevis and on St. Kitts to ensure that both are on the same page.
“You have two islands, but you have one country. So we met, exchanged views, we are making sure that everything is in order and I must give him his credit for that,” she said. “He is the one who is going to take our concerns to Cabinet and the Department of Gender Affairs really got the support from both ministers.”
]]>BASSETERRE, St. Kitts, January 14, 2021 (Press Unit in the Office of the Prime Minister) – Ambassador His Excellency Ian Patches Liburd will serve as the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis’ Permanent Representative to the United Nations.
This was revealed by Prime Minister Dr. the Honourable Timothy Harris when he addressed the nation at his Thursday, January 14 press conference held at the NEMA Conference Room.
In making the announcement, Prime Minister Harris said that Ambassador Liburd has an outstanding record of service in both the private and public sectors.
“The United Nations is the premier global organization with over 193 member states and a large number of entities accredited to it. Ambassador Liburd has served the Country well as its Minister of Public Infrastructure, et al. He is well versed in a range of public and private sector matters and will be an asset to our Country,” Dr. Harris said.
The Honourable Eugene Hamilton, Minister responsible for Human Settlement, National Health Insurance et al., offered words of congratulations to His Excellency Ian Patches Liburd on his appointment, noting, “I know that he will do a fantastic job in that position and the country would be proud of his representation.”
A number of Foreign Service Officers are being transferred to postings at the Federation’s Embassies and Missions abroad. Among them are Mr. Sheldon Henry who will join Ambassador Liburd at the Permanent Mission to the United Nations as the Second Secretary; Ms. Shanelle Simmonds who has been approved for assignment to the Permanent Mission to the OAS in Washington D.C. as First Secretary, while Ms. Denaula Laplace will be posted to the country’s High Commission in Ottawa as Second Secretary.
]]>Basseterre, St. Kitts, December 22, 2020 (SKNIS): During a Sitting of Parliament to debate the Appropriation Bill 2021, 2020, on December 21, Minister of Community and Social Development, the Honourable Eugene Hamilton, took the opportunity to highlight what this ministry has achieved in 2020 and its upcoming plans for 2021.
In 2020, 632 males and 604 females benefited from receiving school uniforms, he said. Also, 17 males and 20 females who experienced a loss were able to receive support for funeral expenses from the ministry.
In terms of food vouchers, 66 male headed homes and 221 female headed homes benefited.
For medical assistance, a total of 66 males and 221 females received eye care support from the ministry. In terms of cancer treatment, 267 males and 320 females received support. For overseas treatment, four males and five females received support. Eight males and 10 females received support for an MRI. Sixteen males and 7 females received surgical support.
Minister Hamilton said that in 2021, there will be a heightened focus on the role of seniors under the Seniors Enrichment Programme in an effort to ensure that seniors live a dignified and purposeful life, and age gracefully.
There will also be a focus on improving the management of the community centres as maintenance is a challenge.
“We have to put more focus on that in 2021,” he said. “It may mean that some services at the health centres may have to be paid for. It may mean that. You will hear more about that as we go on into 2021.”
In terms of counselling, there was the creation of two family matters counselling positions in 2020. Eight family matters counsellors where retained by USAID. Also in 2020, they continued to engage with vulnerable families in the Family Matters Intervention Programme to reduce the level of risks identified through the administration of the Youth Service Eligibility Tool.
“The Family Matters Intervention Programme has achieved excellent overall results in risk reduction in the families who have been part of the programme,” said the minister. “There is a 73 percent average achieved over a two year cycle.”
He said that in the cohort of families that went through the programme, there was a 90 percent reduction in overall risk factors identified.
Also in 2020, there was a tracking of persons receiving help to cope with the pandemic.
“The numbers indicate that during the height of the lockdown and immediately after, the department responded to 156 cases for psychological support that were related to COVID,” he said.
Minister Hamilton stated that in 2021, the intention is to continue with training the professionals, expanding the counselling department to a National Counselling Centre, and creating a Deputy Director position for counselling.
In relation to Probation and Child Protection Services, in 2020, there was the establishment of the technical working group to review National Diversion Programmes, Rehabilitation and Regeneration Strategy.
In 2020, UNICEF provided US $30,000 for the purchase of tablets and other hardware to support case management systems. Also this year, there was a distribution of hygiene packages from UNICEF to foster children and teen mothers.
There was also a review of the Foster Care Programme to review committee implementation by the Probation and Child Welfare Board.
At New Horizons Rehabilitation Centre, there was a retrofitting of the classrooms funded by the OECS Juvenile Justice Rehabilitation Project.
“One of the major achievements was 100 percent pass rate by residents who attempted CSEC exams,” said Minister Hamilton.
At the rehabilitation centre, the minister said that new partnerships are being forged to facilitate internships and training for the residents to assist in their reintegration into society.
]]>Basseterre, St. Kitts, December 22, 2020 (SKNIS): The Department of Gender Affairs has had some successes in 2020 despite the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, says Minister responsible, the Honourable Eugene Hamilton, during a Sitting of Parliament to debate the Appropriation Bill (2021), 2020, on December 21.
He noted that the partnership between the Department of Gender Affairs and the Chamber of Industry and Commerce has provided $20,000 worth of food vouchers for clients of Gender Affairs in both St. Kitts and Nevis. They have also donated masks to persons who work closely with the department and victims of gender-based violence.
The department is also involved in a rehabilitation programme for female inmates. However, due to the pandemic, there was a slowdown of interaction, said Minister Hamilton. Nevertheless, they were given the opportunity to improve their skills in areas such as crocheting, hair braiding, sewing and manufacturing of bags so that if they are unable to find a job, they can work for themselves.
“This is to give them the kind of skills so that they can apply it when they are again freed from prison,” he said.
There was also a one-week workshop for teen mothers and at risk girls, which was sponsored by UNICEF.
“It was a tremendous success despite all of the COVID challenges,” said Minister Hamilton.
The Second Chancer Funding from UNESCO is expected to support the National Gender Quality Action Plan, said Minister Hamilton.
The department was unable to launch the Boys Mentorship Programme due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, said the minister.
Minister Hamilton highlighted some upcoming plans the department has for 2021. He said that as part of the Rehabilitation Programme, there will be a focus on pastry making, backyard gardening, and sewing for the inmates at the prison.
“The department will also partner with the Craft House so that those prisoners could benefit from the expertise of those at the Craft House,” he said.
The prospects of training 30 women and girls in leadership, governance and democracy are also being looked at in 2021.
In addition, the department is partnering with the relevant agencies to have vulnerable women enrolled in skills training programmes.
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