‘Long-term Scotland District solutions needed’

St Joseph MP Ryan Brathwaite has thrown his full support behind the 2026 Budgetary Proposals And Financial Statement, pointing out that it would bring tangible relief to his constituents.

At the same time, he advocated for long-term structural solutions for the Scotland District.

Speaking during debate in the House of Assembly yesterday, Brathwaite, a backbencher, who noted that he was making his contribution as the youngest post-Independence MP to represent St Joseph, reflected on the legacy of political giants who came before him, including Sir Grantley Adams, Charles Lindsay Bolden, Sir Richard Cheltenham and Dale Marshall.

“I stand here today not only as a representative for St Joseph, but as the youngest member in a post-Independence Barbados to represent that constituency,” Brathwaite stated.

“I am fully conscious of the legacy upon which I now stand,” he added, while vowing to build upon that legacy.

Turning his attention to the specific needs of his constituency, he listed several infrastructure projects he anticipates in the new financial year, including housing developments at Ginger Works, a new pavilion at Lammings and the completion of Melbourne’s Bridge and Airy Hill Bridge.

However, he appealed for the re-establishment of a Scotland District Authority. Brathwaite argued that St Joseph and the wider Scotland District faced unique geological and infrastructural challenges that cannot be managed effectively through fragmented ministerial responsibilities.

“It is time, Sir, that this Government revisits the establishment of the Scotland District Authority, one that can coordinate, manage and address unique challenges that face the Scotland District,” he said.

In terms of the budgetary proposals, the businessman highlighted key budgetary measures, pointing to the increase in the reverse tax credit from $1 300 to $1 700 and the introduction of a $100 monthly cost-of-living allowance for pensioners earning under $50 000.

“For low-income families, for young workers trying to find their footing . . . this is meaningful support,” Brathwaite said.

He added that the increase in the Trust Loan ceiling from $10 000 to $20 000 would open doors for young entrepreneurs who possessed the ambition but lacked the capital to start enterprises.

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