As the 2026 Budget debate continued in the National Assembly on Monday, Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr Vindhya Persaud, defended the government’s social sector spending, maintaining that Budget 2026 will significantly expand support for vulnerable groups across the country.
Speaking during her presentation, Dr Persaud said the government remains committed to strengthening social protection systems and scaling up programmes that directly impact children, women, persons with disabilities, and elderly citizens. She noted that the allocations in Budget 2026 provide the resources needed to deepen that support.
Responding to remarks made by opposition MP, Natasha Singh-Lewis, the minister outlined a range of initiatives being expanded under the ministry, pointing to increased investments aimed at improving quality of life and long term stability for vulnerable citizens. For women, she said the government is continuing efforts to promote financial independence through skills training and access to startup financing, with further expansion planned for this year.
Dr Persaud also highlighted ongoing investments in early childhood development, which she said are providing critical support to working parents while improving outcomes for young children. She referenced the day and night care centre in Region Three as one such initiative, noting that similar facilities will be developed in other regions as demand increases.
Addressing the issue of child abuse, the minister acknowledged its seriousness and said it remains a major priority for her ministry.
“Child abuse is a very serious issue, and we take it very seriously at all levels of the ministry. We have seen a consistent reduction in the number of cases, from over 4,000 cases to over 3,000 cases.
That’s still too much, but we are working to make sure every child is safe,” Dr Persaud said.
She further noted that Budget 2026 will provide support to approximately 30,000 persons living with permanent disabilities, as well as thousands of elderly citizens. This support, she explained, will include the construction of new facilities and continued direct financial assistance to help meet daily needs.
While acknowledging that social challenges persist, Dr Persaud said Budget 2026 is structured to strengthen service delivery, expand access to care, and provide meaningful assistance to those who need it most, as the government continues its efforts to build a more inclusive and supportive social safety net.
