**Basseterre, St. Kitts (PMO)** – In his closing remarks during the debate on the 2025 Appropriation Bill, Prime Minister Hon. Dr Terrance Drew addressed recent public criticism regarding salary increases for government ministers. He clarified that this adjustment was not initiated by his administration but was instead a decision budgeted for by the previous administration under Timothy Harris in the 2022 budget estimates.
“The former Prime Minister and Minister of Finance presented this matter to the House in 2021 for the 2022 budget. He had planned an 84% increase over three years,” PM Drew stated. He provided evidence from official budget documents that showed Timothy Harris intended to implement this increase and had even submitted it to Parliament. These revelations highlight the hypocrisy of Timothy Harris, who has publicly criticised the Drew-led administration by labelling the adjustment as an “egregious act.”
Emphasising the need for transparency and fairness, PM Drew explained the rationale behind his administration’s decision to finalise these adjustments. “It is misleading to suggest that this was a decision made by my administration. This adjustment ensures that ministerial salaries are consistent with the leadership roles of civil servants and corrects an imbalance created by the previous administration.”
The Prime Minister further explained that under the previous structure, senior government officials, such as Permanent Secretaries and Directors, were earning more than Cabinet Ministers, creating a disparity that needed to be corrected. “If we did not make this adjustment, we would have faced a situation where those reporting to ministers were earning significantly more than the ministers themselves. This is about ensuring fairness and equity,” PM Drew emphasised.
Documents from the Ministry of Finance clearly outline the former administration’s plans for a phased increase in ministerial salaries, underscoring a deliberate effort by Timothy Harris’s administration, contrary to his current claims. “The evidence is irrefutable. This was budgeted for in the 2022 estimates, which were debated and passed in Parliament under his leadership,” the Prime Minister explained.
The Drew-led administration remains committed to transparency, inclusivity, and sustainability. “Unlike the former administration, we are transparent with the people about these decisions. We are not hiding behind closed doors or operating in secrecy. Every decision we make is rooted in the best interest of the people of St. Kitts and Nevis,” assured Dr. Drew.
The Prime Minister also took the opportunity to highlight the broader context of the 2025 budget, emphasising its focus on economic diversification, sustainable development, and social equity. “This budget is about powering progress and building a resilient, inclusive economy. It is underpinned by our national vision to ensure a prosperous future for all citizens,” stated Prime Minister Drew.
He encouraged citizens to review the 2025 Appropriation Bill and other budget documents, which are available on credible platforms such as the St. Kitts and Nevis Information Service (SKNIS) website.