BASSETERRE, St. Kitts - OFFICIALS at the Social Security Board have confirmed that more than 17,500 people have benefitted from the first dividend payout announced by the Prime Minister and Minister of Social Security, Dr. Terrance Drew.
The announcement came in a press release, which revealed the numbers as at December 28, and noted that they were spread across the private and public sectors including government pensioners, Social Security pensioners, statutory bodies and others.
The deadline for registration for the programme is December 31 and payments continue to be made daily and will continue into the New Year.
“Please note though, that all applications received by the deadline will be honoured. We crave the public’s understanding and patience as we continue to process payments and validate information to ensure payments are made as accurately as possible.” the statement noted.
The payment formed part of a pledge made by Dr. Drew and his Labour Administration to share proceeds and profits from the programme to citizens and residents of St. Kitts and Nevis who qualify.
Social Security noted that the high level of scrutiny is required to ensure that funds are disbursed to the right persons in their respective accounts.
“Contributors to Social Security who reside overseas may upload a picture of the ID Page of a valid Passport where no Social Security Card is available. In a case where there is no local bank account, claimants may assign a local payee through whose account the payment can be made. Please refer to the website www.socialsecurity.kn and follow instructions for this to be done.
“We take this time to assure the general public that we continue to work feverishly to ensure that their applications are processed and payments are made,” the statement added.
The Prime Minister thanked everyone for their feedback and support, whilst welcoming the “level of cooperation with respect to the reporting and contributions to Social Security on behalf of all insured persons”.
