The government has doubled subsidies for early childhood tuition fees to $100 per child, but the opposition argues the measure falls short of addressing families’ deepening financial struggles.
The increased support, announced at Monday’s Cabinet briefing, applies to all students in private preschools, with centres also receiving a $3,000 maintenance grant.
Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre also confirmed a new Micoud North early childhood facility and backpay for temporary teachers in August, calling it “a show of appreciation”.
However, the United Workers Party (UWP) insists the hike is inadequate.
“Given the economic hardships… that’s a drop in the bucket,” said Deputy political leader of the UWP Guy Joseph.
Marcella Johnson, UWP candidate for Gros Islet, argued that the measure fails to address deeper cost-of-living pressures. “Before a child can enter school, a child has to be able to eat and survive… How long can that $100 stretch?” she said, calling for broader relief on essentials such as food and school supplies.
UWP public relations officer and former MP Lenard “Spider” Montoute added that a future UWP government would strengthen social safety nets while aiming to reduce long-term dependency on government funds.
The Saint Lucia Labour Party’s 2021 manifesto committed to equitable access to early childhood education, offering incentives to centres and integrating modern technology into learning environments.
While the government says the expanded preschool support and teacher payments reflect its investment in education, the opposition insists they fall short of campaign promises and the economic reality for many families.
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