“Hard Work Must Be Recognised!”: Prime Minister Announces Double Salary Payment to Civil Servants, Pensioners and STEP Workers

Basseterre, St. Kitts, December 16, 2025 (PMO) — Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew, has announced the payment of an additional month’s salary, commonly referred to as a “double salary” for civil servants and other qualifying groups, as he concluded his 2026 Budget Address in the National Assembly, today, Tuesday 16th December, 2025.

The announcement, delivered in the closing moments of the presentation, was framed as a deliberate and prudent measure, rooted in the Government’s people-centred approach and recognition of the dedication of public sector workers. Emphasising the contribution of those who keep the country functioning, Prime Minister Drew stated plainly, “the hard work must be recognized,” while noting that the decision was taken with care and responsibility.

“I am pleased to announce an extra payment of one month salary, commonly called the double salary,” the Prime Minister told the House, drawing applause from members and the public gallery.

Prime Minister Drew explained that the additional payment will apply to civil servants, government auxiliary employees, pensioners, and workers on the STEP Programme, underscoring the Government’s intention to ensure that those who contribute daily to national development directly benefit from the country’s economic stability.

The Prime Minister further announced that the payment will be made before the Christmas holidays, providing timely financial support to thousands of households. “This payment will be issued on Friday, 19 December, 2025,” he confirmed.

For the first time, however, the Prime Minister outlined specific caveats to the double salary arrangement. Under this year’s payment, Ministers of Government and Government Advisors will be excluded.

He noted that this approach reflects the administration’s values and priorities, describing it as a departure from past practice. “This has never been done this way before,” the Prime Minister said, adding that the decision demonstrates the Government’s commitment to protecting and rewarding its workforce while exercising fiscal discipline. “For our hardworking civil servants, you will get an extra one salary,” he affirmed.

The double salary announcement formed part of the Prime Minister’s broader conclusion to Budget 2026, which he described as a people-focused and confidence-building budget, one aimed at easing cost-of-living pressures, strengthening social protection, and continuing to invest in national resilience and shared prosperity.