National Assembly to Conduct First and Second Readings of Bills on March 21, 2025

Paragraph 1: Setting the Stage for Legislative Action

The National Assembly of Saint Kitts and Nevis is scheduled to convene on Friday, March 21, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. in the National Assembly Chambers, Government Headquarters, Basseterre. This session promises significant legislative activity, with two new bills slated for their first reading and three bills advancing to the second reading stage. This reinforces the government’s commitment to good governance, emphasizing transparency, accountability, and adherence to the rule of law. The session will be broadcast live on ZIZ Radio (96 FM), participating radio stations, TV Channel 5 in St. Kitts, and Channel 98 in Nevis, ensuring public access to the proceedings. The session will also be streamed online at www.zizonline.com. This multi-platform approach underscores the government’s dedication to open and accessible governance.

Paragraph 2: Introducing Key Legislation: Income Tax and Plastic Waste Reduction

The upcoming parliamentary session will introduce two crucial pieces of legislation: the Income Tax (Amendment) Bill, 2025, and the Plastic Waste Reduction Bill, 2025. Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, Dr. Terrance Drew, will spearhead the introduction of the Income Tax (Amendment) Bill. This suggests potential adjustments to the existing income tax framework, likely aimed at refining revenue collection and potentially addressing economic considerations. Simultaneously, Dr. Joyelle Clarke, Minister of Sustainable Development, Environment, Climate Action, and Constituency Empowerment, will introduce the Plastic Waste Reduction Bill. This legislation likely addresses the growing concern of plastic pollution, aiming to implement measures to reduce plastic consumption and promote sustainable waste management practices.

Paragraph 3: Delving into Second Readings and Legislative Progress

Following their introduction, both the Income Tax (Amendment) Bill, 2025, and the Plastic Waste Reduction Bill, 2025, will proceed to their second reading. This stage allows for more detailed debate and scrutiny of the proposed legislation. Prime Minister Drew will lead the second reading of the Income Tax (Amendment) Bill, while Minister Clarke will similarly guide the Plastic Waste Reduction Bill through this crucial stage. This structured progression ensures thorough review and consideration before the bills move towards final approval. This demonstrates the government’s commitment to a deliberate and transparent legislative process.

Paragraph 4: Strengthening Integrity in Public Life

Beyond the introduction of new legislation, the National Assembly will also address the Integrity in Public Life (Amendment) Bill, 2025. Attorney-General and Minister of Justice and Legal Affairs, Garth Wilkin, will move this bill to its second reading. Having already undergone its first reading on February 27, 2025, this bill signifies the government’s ongoing efforts to reinforce ethical conduct and accountability within the public sector. Amendments to this legislation likely aim to enhance transparency and strengthen mechanisms for upholding ethical standards in public office.

Paragraph 5: Public Access and Transparency in Legislative Processes

The government of Saint Kitts and Nevis is committed to ensuring public access to legislative information. Copies of the Income Tax (Amendment) Bill, 2025, the Plastic Waste Reduction Bill, 2025, and the Integrity in Public Life (Amendment) Bill, 2025 will be made available to the public as soon as they are finalized. These documents will be accessible through the official website of the St. Kitts and Nevis Information Service (www.sknis.gov.kn) under the "Bills" section. Additionally, the bills will be accessible via the St. Kitts and Nevis Information Service Facebook page. This multi-platform approach to information dissemination underscores the government’s commitment to transparency and public engagement in the legislative process.

Paragraph 6: The Broader Implications of the Legislative Agenda

The upcoming parliamentary session highlights the multifaceted approach of the Saint Kitts and Nevis government to address key issues facing the nation. The Income Tax (Amendment) Bill, 2025, signals a focus on fiscal responsibility and potential adjustments to the tax system, while the Plastic Waste Reduction Bill, 2025, reflects a commitment to environmental sustainability. The continued progress of the Integrity in Public Life (Amendment) Bill, 2025, underscores the government’s dedication to ethical governance and accountability. By broadcasting the proceedings live and making the bills readily accessible online, the government encourages public participation and fosters a transparent legislative process. This comprehensive legislative agenda reflects the government’s commitment to both economic and environmental well-being, alongside promoting ethical standards in public life.