Prime Minister Philip J Pierre has announced that major infrastructural works will be significantly intensified in the 2025/2026 budget year.
PM Pierre, who earlier this week presented to the House of Assembly Saint Lucia’s largest-ever annual budget of $2.58 billion, stated that this aligns with the government’s projection of its Infrastructure 2030 agenda.
The prime minister stated in the parliament that the majority of the developmental segment of the budget will be designated for the Department of Infrastructure, Ports, and Roads.
The net capital expenditure is projected to be EC$325,590,089. “This projected $325.6 million represents an 8.8 percent increase over the approved amount for the 2024/2025 Estimates,” PM Pierre remarked.
“Of the total allocation of $325.6 million for capital expenditure, EC$122.8 million, or 27 percent, is earmarked for the Department of Infrastructure, representing the largest share of the developmental budget,” he clarified.
The Finance Minister detailed the essential projects slated for funding this year, including the replacement of the Choc Bridge and several renewable energy initiatives.
He specified, “The amount will be utilised as follows: design finance construct payments, $52.4M; the Millennium Highway and West Coast Road Project, $25.5M; road maintenance and improvement, $8M; Choc Bridge construction, $8.2M; renewable energy sector projects, $4M; and other infrastructural projects, including repairs to government buildings and the desilting of rivers, $24.7M—totaling $122.8 million.”
The Government of Saint Lucia is dedicated to improving the speed of pothole repairs throughout the island’s roadways.
The Prime Minister announced the commissioning of a new pothole patcher truck to accelerate road rehabilitation efforts across the island.
The 2025/2026 Estimates of Revenue and Expenditure, representing PM Pierre’s third budget presentation since assuming office in 2021, highlights the nation’s economic resilience and the government’s commitment to fiscal responsibility.
PM Pierre confidently stated that the budget showcases surpluses essential for supporting the nation’s economic growth. He explained that thorough information regarding government policy and strategic direction for the forthcoming year will be presented during the reading of the Appropriations Bill, set for the last Tuesday in April.
The Prime Minister announced that the budget presentation on Tuesday offers a comprehensive examination of the economy’s performance for the period spanning from April 1, 2024, to March 31, 2025.
He stated, “The country is being managed effectively, and this year, we are implementing significant changes to the Budget process.” The Ministry of Finance utilizes advanced software, making information more accessibility for everyone.”