St. Kitts Government denies rumors of increased travel allowances for ministers

The Government of Saint Kitts and Nevis has confirmed that its official Travel Per Diem Policy for ministers, permanent secretaries, ambassadors, and other public officers remains unchanged since its initial adoption in 2008, under Ministry of Finance Circular No. 09/2008.

The clarification comes amid what officials describe as “persistent false claims” regarding public travel allowances. Of particular concern is the widely circulated—but categorically false—allegation that government ministers receive a daily allowance of US$1,000 while traveling.

“Such misinformation erodes trust and distorts factual discourse,” the government said in a statement issued Friday.

The longstanding 2008 policy stipulates the following daily travel per diem rates:

• Ministers of Government: EC$100 per day within the OECS; US$100 (EC$270) per day for travel outside the OECS.

• Permanent Secretaries and Ambassadors: EC$350 for travel within CARICOM; EC$425 for travel outside of CARICOM.

• Other Civil Servants: EC$300 for CARICOM travel; EC$350 for non-CARICOM destinations.

The policy also outlines reduced per diem rates for travel exceeding 14 days and prohibits per diems for fully sponsored trips.

The Government is urging the public to seek information through verified sources such as the St. Kitts and Nevis Information Service (SKNIS), the Ministry of Finance, the Attorney General’s Chambers, or the Information Commissioner. Citizens are also reminded that they can access government records under the Freedom of Information (Amendment) Act, 2024 (No. 18 of 2024), which provides a legal framework for transparency and public accountability.