Opposition Leader Ralph Gonsalves has launched a blistering critique of new eligibility criteria for the National Lottery assistance program, labeling the move a “wicked” austerity measure designed to disenfranchise the poor.
Gonsalves revealed that the government is now implementing a means test that disqualifies any household with a combined monthly income of over $2,000.
Gonsalves argued that this benchmark is fundamentally detached from the economic reality of Vincentian families. He pointed out that a household where a mother, father, and one working child collectively earn $2,000 averaging less than $700 each would be denied assistance even if they are supporting multiple children in secondary school or university.
He noted that after paying for basic utilities like water and light, internet for schooling, and installments on essential appliances, such families have little left to survive.
According to Gonsalves, this fiscal tightening is a “matter of choice, not of necessity”. He accused the administration of “manufacturing a problem” to justify IMF-style austerity policies that “bring pain and suffering” and destabilize the country’s social fabric.
He further alleged that while the government claims it cannot afford public assistance, it is finding significant funds to host events like the Caribbean Premier League (CPL).