In a strategic move during the election campaign, Finance Minister Camillo Gonsalves announced a youth-oriented initiative, Youth GATES (Guarantee of Apprenticeship Training, Employment, or Scholarship), at a United Labour Party (ULP) rally in Calliaqua. The programme, aimed at providing opportunities for young graduates in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, mirrors a pledge made by the opposition New Democratic Party (NDP) in 2023. Gonsalves, seeking a third term as MP for East St. George, emphasized the ULP’s longstanding commitment to youth development since 2001, contrasting it with what he described as the NDP’s unfulfilled promises. He criticized the NDP for failing to address critical issues like housing and education in their campaign rhetoric, accusing them of neglecting the nation’s progress. The minister also warned that an NDP victory could jeopardize ongoing projects, such as the Arnos Vale hospital construction, and sever ties with Taiwan, which supports Vincentian students. Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves has previously expressed confidence in the ULP’s ability to elevate St. Vincent and the Grenadines to first-world status within 15 years. With general elections anticipated by November, the political landscape remains highly charged as both parties vie for public trust.
Camillo’s ‘GATES’ mirrors NDP’s 2023 Youth Guarantee Pledge
