Additional Funds for Poverty Intervention Project

Another $75 million will be allocated under the Short Term Poverty Intervention Project this year, as the Government continues its work to protect the nation’s most vulnerable.

Cabinet has approved the increased funding due to the positive impact the initiative has had on recipients.

Minister of Labour and Social Security, Hon Derrick Kellier, in a statement to the House on June 23, informed that approximately 3,500 poor households benefited from the intervention project last year, with the $75 million budgetary allocation.

The project was done in collaboration with Members of Parliament, each of whom was allocated $1 million. The funding was directed largely towards entrepreneurial ventures, and the provision of compassionate grants.

Mr. Kellier noted that each Member of Parliament (MP) will again be allocated $1 million. However, the funds will be given in two tranches. A total of $500,000 will be made available from July to September, while the remaining $500,000 will be allotted in December.

The Minister said the methodology used last year will again be adopted.  Each MP will receive a letter that provides details of the project along with the prescribed form for the submission of beneficiary names and projects.

The recommendations are to be sent directly to the Permanent Secretary, who will initiate the necessary investigations by social workers to ensure that the projects are productive and beneficial.