Prime Minister Pierre Acknowledges Contributions of Inland Revenue Staff

Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre recently engaged with the staff of Saint Lucia’s Inland Revenue Department (IRD) to recognize their vital role in national development.

In an online statement, the Prime Minister emphasized the significance of the IRD, stating, “As a key revenue collection agency, the Department secures the resources that fund healthcare, education, roads, public safety, and social programs benefiting all Saint Lucians.”

Since taking office in 2021, the Saint Lucia Labour Party (SLP) administration has implemented various tax relief measures aimed at helping families and businesses keep more of their income. The enhancements include raising the annual personal income tax allowance from EC$18,000 to EC$25,000, eliminating withholding tax on government contracts valued at EC$10,000 or less, and offering VAT relief on selected building materials and sanitary products.

During a recent business forum, PM Pierre noted, “We have increased allowances for children and dependent relatives, made pension income tax-exempt, and extended the tax amnesty to December 2027, waiving interest and penalties on eligible outstanding taxes through December 2025.”

Highlighting the importance of these initiatives, he remarked: “These measures provide greater financial breathing room while helping taxpayers meet their obligations. Our responsibility is to balance meaningful relief with the revenue needed to serve our people. I thank the staff of the Inland Revenue Department for their service and encourage all taxpayers to contribute to building a stronger Saint Lucia.”

Key Highlights of the Engagement:

• Recognizing Public Service: Prime Minister Pierre underscored the significance of the IRD team as a cornerstone agency that secures funding for essential public infrastructure, healthcare, education, and social welfare programs.
• Reaffirming Tax Policies: The meeting provided an opportunity to reflect on ongoing tax relief initiatives and structural changes implemented by the department since 2021.

These initiatives include:

• Increasing the annual personal income tax allowance from EC$18,000 to EC$25,000.
• Eliminating withholding tax on government contracts valued at EC$10,000 or below.
• Providing VAT exemptions on targeted building materials and sanitary products.
• Waiving interest, fines, and penalties on eligible outstanding tax debts through an extended tax amnesty valid through December 2027.

The Prime Minister urged for a balanced approach between offering financial relief and ensuring steady revenue collections to support public development.