The New Democratic Party (NDP) has announced a series of policies aimed at alleviating the financial burden on citizens of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, particularly public sector workers and families. Opposition Leader Godwin Friday unveiled these measures during a radio interview on Hot 97 FM, emphasizing their potential to address the ongoing cost-of-living crisis. Among the key proposals is a 50% duty concession on vehicle purchases for public servants with at least 10 years of service, a policy designed to enhance mobility and reduce transportation costs. This initiative builds on a previous suggestion by Central Kingstown MP St. Clair Leacock and aims to extend benefits previously reserved for higher-ranking officials. Additionally, the NDP plans to introduce two VAT-free shopping days annually in August and December, offering citizens a reprieve from the 16% VAT rate. The party also announced a special duty-free concession of up to EC$20,000 for creatives to procure equipment, supporting the growth of the creative industries. Furthermore, families will receive a EC$500 ‘baby bonus’ upon the birth of a child, alongside a review of maternity leave policies to extend the current three-month period to six months. These measures, according to Friday, are practical and achievable, with the potential to significantly improve the quality of life for Vincentians.
