Tax reductions, increased pay top list of Independence ‘goodies’

Tax reduction, increase in allowances, and promotions are among the main features in what is commonly referred to as the Independence “goodies bag” announced by Prime Minister, Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, as he delivered his address at the Independence Day Parade at the Arnos Vale Sports Complex on Monday, October 27,2025.

In the much anticipated portion of the Prime Minister’s address, he informed the audience in the full stands, and listening elsewhere, that he was announcing 14 initiatives intended to further improve the lives, living and production of the people of St Vincent and the Grenadines:

•  Some 660 “deserving persons” affected by Hurricane Beryl who had not received the monthly $600., support for almost a year-to receive the money for eight months as a lump sum payment by the end of November, 2025.
•  A total of 2,704 persons found to be in severe need and were paid an additional monthly Cost-Of-Living allowance of $175., for 3-months earlier this year to receive an additional three months’ COLA for October to December, to be paid at the end of November.
•  A one-off tax free Christmas COLA amounting to 3% of their wage or salary to be paid to all public servants by November, 30, 2025.

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