More time to register for Solidarity Allowance

Thousands of Barbadians yet to claim the $300 Solidarity Allowance have been given extra time to register to ensure no eligible person is left out of the one-off relief payout. The new cut-off date is July 31.

Minister in the Ministry of Finance Ryan Straughn made the announcement during a post-Cabinet press briefing on Thursday, stressing that while the registration period has been extended, people should still come forward as early as possible to avoid delays.

“Cabinet agreed that we will be extending the period with respect to which persons will be able to register until July 31st,” Straughn said. 

“However, we still continue to urge people to go as early as possible so that we can get the payments out as quickly as possible.”

He said the registration centres will remain open longer to accommodate the extension and ensure that no one is disenfranchised. 

As of this week, nearly 150 000 people have already received the payment, but officials are still encouraging those who have not yet registered to come forward with the required information.

Straughn reminded the public that individuals must provide valid identification to receive the allowance, noting that while a Trident ID is not mandatory, it is preferred. 

For those without any form of ID, he advised visiting the Electoral and Boundaries Commission (EBC) to get one. 

Minister of Information Wilfred Abrahams, who briefly addressed the media, gave the assurance that ID requests related to the Solidarity Allowance will be fast-tracked.

“Those persons can present themselves to the Electoral Boundaries [Commission] and once they give their information, they will actually do the background checking. So you won’t have to go and register yourself to get a birth certificate or anything. Once the information provided is verified, the card will be issued,” Abrahams confirmed. 

Straughn also reminded the public of the appellate mechanism in place for individuals who feel they have been unfairly excluded from receiving the allowance.

“There may be some Barbadians out there who, for whatever reason, may feel as if they are disenfranchised…. I want to remind the country that the appellate mechanism is still in place,” he said.

That panel includes the Director of Finance, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Labour, and the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of People Empowerment. They will review written complaints from individuals who believe they were unfairly denied the allowance.

Straughn reiterated that providing bank account details remains the fastest way to receive payment. For those without accounts, updated mailing addresses are needed so that cheques can be issued. 

“We are trying to make this process as easy as possible for persons to be able to access the Solidarity Allowance,” Straughn said. 

“If you assist us with that information, then that will determine how easy it is for the government to be able to pay you.” (SM)