BASSETERRE, Saint Kitts, April 30, 2025 (SKNIS) – The Honourable Konris Maynard, Member of Parliament (MP) for St. Christopher Three, delivered sturdy help for the Pensions (Modification) Invoice, 2025, throughout Wednesday’s (April 30) sitting of the Nationwide Meeting, hailing it as a transformational step ahead in ending many years of systemic inequality for Authorities Auxiliary Staff (GAEs).
Talking throughout the historic sitting of Parliament, Minister Maynard declared that the laws removes the long-standing want for GAEs to struggle for restricted appointed positions within the civil service merely to qualify for retirement advantages.
“You, the federal government auxiliary employees, are actually entitled to a pension —similar to another government-appointed employee. Pension and gratuity. So now, there isn’t a want for that struggle anymore,” mentioned MP Maynard.
For years, authorities employees in auxiliary roles akin to public works crews, carpenters, masons, street restore groups, and those that keep water sources in distant areas have competed for a restricted variety of appointed posts to achieve entry to pensions. This Invoice, Minister Maynard defined, modifications that completely.
“So long as you contribute your service to the Authorities of Saint Kitts and Nevis for the stipulated time beneath this laws, you are actually assured a pension. You don’t have to fret about chasing the final appointed place anymore,” he emphasised.
Minister Maynard acknowledged the difficult and infrequently harmful work that many GAEs undertake, from climbing treacherous terrain very early within the morning to take care of our water provides, to working tirelessly to uphold public infrastructure. He affirmed that with this new legislation, these employees can now stay up for retiring with dignity.
“All of us within the Cupboard imagine that individuals should be capable of age with dignity, to retire with dignity, and never be involved about what they are going to do once they hit 62,” the minister mentioned, underscoring the profound significance of this present day within the historical past of Saint Kitts and Nevis.
The Pensions (Modification) Act, 2025, introduces a contributory mannequin that regulates pension and gratuity funds, defines clear and constant eligibility standards, and establishes a devoted pension fund that may guarantee long-term sustainability.
Minister Maynard proudly famous that this historic reform is the results of deliberate political will by the present administration, guided by its mandate to serve the working class.
“Let me make it clear: it is a political resolution to behave on behalf of the employees of this nation,” he mentioned. “And it’s the St. Kitts and Nevis Labour Get together, over its 93 years, that has persistently made daring selections within the curiosity of employees on this Federation.”
With the passage of the Pensions (Modification) Invoice, 2025, the federal government delivers on its promise to construct a extra inclusive and sustainable future.
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