In a significant move toward governmental decentralization, National Security Minister Rayburn Blackmoore has unveiled plans to relocate driver’s license issuance services from the capital to regional centers starting January 2026. The initiative marks a transformative shift in public service delivery for the island nation.
During a press briefing, Minister Blackmoore detailed the comprehensive preparations undertaken through multi-ministry collaborations spanning several years. “We have moved beyond theoretical discussions to concrete action,” Blackmoore stated. “My mandate from the Prime Minister requires every department head to facilitate this decentralization without exception.”
The government has already acquired specialized equipment valued at $112,000 within the current fiscal allocation. However, the discovery of a missing laminator has prompted an official investigation led by the Police Commissioner. “Driver’s license production cannot proceed without this critical component,” Blackmoore emphasized. “We have initiated a thorough inquiry while simultaneously ordering two replacement laminators.”
Portsmouth will launch license issuance operations during the first week of January 2026, mirroring Roseau’s existing services. Concurrently, background checks are underway for personnel designated to handle photographic and printing responsibilities. Marigot is scheduled to commence operations by the second quarter of 2026 following equipment installation.
Expanding beyond transportation services, Blackmoore announced parallel plans to decentralize vital document certification. “Why should citizens travel from Tranto to Roseau merely to obtain birth certificates?” he questioned. The decentralization program will extend to marriage and death certificates across multiple regions including Castle Bruce, La Plaine, and Grand Bay.
The ministry has completed logistical assessments and consulted with the Registrar General to ensure seamless implementation. “Preliminary inspections already occur in Portsmouth,” Blackmoore noted, “but we are advancing toward full-service capability. This represents the culmination of prolonged governmental efforts—the era of deliberation has ended, and the phase of execution has begun.”