BASSETERRE, St. Kitts (PMO) — Prime Minister Hon. Dr Terrance Drew reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and action in addressing crime during a wide-ranging interview on WINN FM’s ‘Inside the News’ program. Emphasising a holistic, evidence-based strategy, PM Drew discussed the success of the government’s ongoing 90-day crime prevention campaign and the foundational measures being implemented to foster long-term safety and security across the Federation.
“We cannot pay for peace, nor should crime be a political football. Our approach is not just about enforcement; it’s about tackling the root causes of violence, empowering communities, and providing opportunities for at-risk individuals to choose a better path”.
The Prime Minister highlighted his administration’s commitment to addressing the systemic factors contributing to crime. As part of this strategy, groundbreaking dyslexia research has been introduced in the Federation’s prisons, revealing a significant correlation between undiagnosed learning disabilities and criminal behaviour. This discovery has led to targeted interventions, including specialised educational programs and testing for inmates, some of whom have learned to read for the first time in their lives.
“These individuals were not failures of character but of opportunity. By diagnosing learning disabilities like dyslexia early, we can intervene before frustration and disenfranchisement lead to criminal activity. Our goal is to expand this initiative to schools, ensuring no child is left behind, and every student has the tools to succeed.”
The government has also bolstered its efforts to reform and rehabilitate incarcerated individuals. New programs at the prison include life skills training, expanded educational offerings, vocational certifications, and reintegration support through a Prison-to-Work program. These initiatives aim to equip inmates with the skills and confidence necessary to reintegrate into society successfully.
The government, according to Prime Minister Drew, has also prioritised youth development through education, sports, and structured extracurricular activities. A revitalised Scouts and Guides program is being expanded across schools, teaching children discipline, teamwork, and leadership. Sports initiatives, such as football development programs, have engaged over 200 young people, with some now heading to international opportunities in the United Kingdom.
“We must meet our youth where they are, offering positive outlets and opportunities that guide them toward a future filled with promise,” said PM Drew.
On the enforcement front of combating crime, the Prime Minister detailed investments in cutting-edge technology, including improved scanners at ports, a revamped canine unit, and modern surveillance systems. Collaborative efforts with regional and international partners, such as the Regional Security System (RSS) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), have significantly enhanced the Federation’s capacity to detect and deter criminal activity.
As the 90-day campaign nears its conclusion, Prime Minister Drew expressed confidence in the measurable progress achieved thus far and outlined plans to institutionalise the effort.
“We are committed to going beyond the 90 days, embedding these strategies into the fabric of our governance to create a safer, more prosperous St. Kitts and Nevis for generations to come. “When we share the data, the successes, and the challenges openly, we empower citizens to be partners in building a safer nation,” the Prime Minister affirmed.