Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre has outlined an agenda for 2026, signalling continuity in infrastructure development, expanded social and education initiatives and stronger environmental enforcement while expressing optimism about investment and economic growth.
Speaking on plans for the new year at a pre-Cabinet briefing, the Prime Minister said the Government will “continue basically on the same path that we ended the last term”, particularly in relation to major infrastructure projects already underway.
The Prime Minister confirmed that work on the Gros Ilet highway will proceed, noting that it will commence “most likely in the first half of this year”. He also provided an update on the long-anticipated Hewanorra international airport terminal project, describing it as “the largest infrastructure project in the country”.
According to Pierre, the project has followed a rigorous procurement process, explaining that it “went through international tender” and that the tenders have already been opened. He said the government expects to receive confirmation “before the end of March” on who will be awarded the contract, with construction expected to begin by the middle of 2026.
Security infrastructure is also on the agenda at Gros Islet as the Prime Minister announced that its Police Headquarters is nearing completion and will be formally opened this year. He emphasised its national significance, stating that it is Government’s intention that the facility “be part of our independence celebrations”.
Pierre further stated that progress is being made on the housing project at Talvern, while the Rockhall housing development is also expected to move forward this year. In addition, the Government will begin formally handing over land to long-standing occupants. Recalling a previous policy, he noted that land had been made available “free of charge to people… who were there for more than two years”, and confirmed that this process will be formalised during 2026 for individuals who have occupied lands for decades.
In education, the Prime Minister highlighted a renewed focus on continuing, adult and special education. He said the government recognised that many students who complete secondary school are “functionally illiterate because of different… issues”, stressing that special needs education requires “a special kind of curriculum”. He confirmed that this work will continue alongside the Early Childhood Education Trust, reiterating that the government had promised that tuition fees would be free.
Pierre touched on the ongoing concern about at-risk youth, particularly young men. While acknowledging the existence of multiple social programmes, he announced plans for a new partnership, explaining that the Government will enter a strategic alliance with Centre for Adolescent Renewal and Education (C.A.R.E), an institution he said has “a very good record” in addressing youth vulnerability. This collaboration is expected to support existing initiatives in schools and other social development programmes.
The Prime Minister said the Government will also take seriously “the degradation of the environment”, pointing to abandoned vehicles, derelict houses and unused lands. He warned that these issues are “not only… unsightly, but it’s also a security risk,” and confirmed that stronger action will be taken to address abandoned cars and properties across the country.
Pierre highlighted further tax relief, particularly for pensioners. He noted that pensioners “pay no tax, whether it’s a government pension or pension from the private sector,” and said allowances have also been increased. He added that legislation to formalise these measures will be brought to Parliament, stressing that it will be retroactive, providing additional relief to citizens.
The Prime Minister expressed confidence in the country’s economic prospects, adding that the government expects “the investment profile of the country to improve”, pointing to continued expansion in the hotel sector and renewed interest in developments in Rodney Bay and surrounding areas.
