The Government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines has announced that the Annual Christmas Road Cleaning Programme will commence on Monday, December 8, following approval by Cabinet through the Hon. Nigel Stephenson, Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Physical Planning.
Managed by the Roads, Buildings and General Services Authority (BRAGSA), the programme is expected to cost EC$3 million, run for six days, and employ over 7,000 Vincentians across the country. The initiative will conclude on Monday, December 15.
This year’s programme is shorter than the usual eight days due to the delayed start. The revised timeline ensures that all workers can be paid before Christmas, in keeping with the spirit and purpose of this national undertaking.
Each worker will receive a take-home pay of EC$300.00, with no deductions. BRAGSA will make all required NIS contributions separately, ensuring workers receive the full amount.
All persons 18 years and older who participated in the last road-cleaning programme in August, and are fit and willing to work, are invited to report for duty on Monday.
In addition, 2,000 new workers—distributed across the 15 constituencies—will be engaged this year to provide opportunities for persons who have not participated in past programmes.
BRAGSA emphasizes that safety remains a top priority. Workers using weed eaters (trimmers/weed wackers) must inform the BRAGSA officer in their area so that a safety shield can be issued. BRAGSA officers will strictly enforce the use of these shields to protect both workers and road users.
Motorists and pedestrians are urged to exercise caution when travelling through areas where cleaning activities are underway.
The Christmas road cleaning programme is an annual tradition that enhances the nation’s environment while providing short-term employment and income support to thousands of citizens during the holiday season.
