Thousands of Saint Lucians receiving public assistance along with those still waiting to get onto the programme are being reassessed as Government moves to determine who still qualifies for support.
Equity Minister Emma Hippolyte says the Welfare Unit has begun a comprehensive recertification of the Public Assistance Programme (PAP), with current beneficiaries, people on the waiting list and some previously suspended recipients all falling within the scope of the exercise.
The nationwide review took effect on September 15 and is the first comprehensive PAP recertification since 2023.
The exercise could result in changes for some households.
Hippolyte said circumstances have shifted considerably since the last review, with changes in household composition, addresses, contact information and families’ economic situations. Government, she said, needs updated information to ensure limited social protection resources are reaching those most in need.
Welfare Officers and designated enumerators are now visiting households to collect that information. Assessments are being conducted using the Saint Lucia National Eligibility Tool (SLNET), which uses information supplied by households to determine eligibility for public assistance.
Importantly, the review is not limited to people already receiving PAP payments. Hippolyte confirmed that people on the waiting list including applicants who have already been assessed but have not been placed on the programme because of budgetary constraints — are also included.
People who were suspended following the PAP review conducted between March and May have also been asked to participate in the new recertification exercise.
The Minister stressed that the information collected will help determine who continues to qualify, who may require additional social interventions or referrals, and whose circumstances have changed.
For some beneficiaries, improved financial circumstances could mean transitioning out of public assistance. Others may continue to require assistance or could need a different form of support.
Hippolyte said the objective is to maintain a system that is responsive, fair and properly targeted, while recognising that PAP remains an important lifeline for vulnerable households.
The community rollout has already started in Canaries and Laborie, with other communities expected to follow.
Beneficiaries and people on the waiting list are being urged to make themselves available when Welfare Officers or designated enumerators visit and to provide complete and accurate information about their household circumstances.
Government says announcements will be issued as teams move into different communities, with radio, television, social media and community notices being used to advise residents about the exercise.
Hippolyte has also appealed to churches, community leaders, civil society organisations and the media to help get the information to affected households.
