Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves of St. Vincent and the Grenadines has revealed plans to announce a significant increase in Public Assistance during his Independence Day address on October 27, with the changes set to take effect in January 2026. This announcement comes amidst a heated political climate, as the opposition New Democratic Party (NDP) has pledged to raise monthly payouts to EC$500 if elected in the upcoming November elections. Currently, Public Assistance recipients receive between EC$275 and EC$300 monthly, depending on their age. Gonsalves criticized the NDP’s policy, labeling it as a desperate move influenced by foreign strategists. He emphasized that his government has already expanded the social safety net, including free or subsidized school meals, housing grants, and healthcare benefits. The Prime Minister also highlighted the NDP’s use of the term “Poor Relief” as demeaning, insisting on the formal term “Public Assistance.” Gonsalves further accused the opposition of misrepresenting the country’s social programs and warned of the risks of privatizing healthcare. The announcement underscores the intensifying political rivalry as the nation approaches a critical election.
PM suggests he was going to increase ‘Poor Relief’ next year
