Straughn signals relief measures ahead of Budget presentation

Finance Minister Ryan Straughn signalled that Barbadians could see measures aimed at easing some of the concerns raised during the recent election campaign and amid shifting global conditions when the 2026 Financial Statement and Budgetary Proposals are presented in Parliament this afternoon.

Speaking to reporters on arrival at Parliament Buildings ahead of delivering the Budget, Straughn said the government had taken into account the evolving geopolitical climate and the issues raised by citizens.

“Well, Barbados can expect some relief from the concerns that they have expressed, not only during the election, but certainly with the geopolitical issues that confront us,” he said.

“I think we’ve been able to reformulate, given the short notice with respect to the changes in the geopolitical climate. So I am confident that at the end of the speech, Barbadians will be comfortable that their government has been flexible, responsible, and responding to the concerns that have been expressed.”

The presentation marks Straughn’s first Budget as Minister of Finance.

He said he was proud to assume the role after several years of working on the country’s economic programme.

“Well, I feel really good because I spent the last eight years effectively doing the work on behalf of the people of Barbados, and certainly on behalf of my constituents,” he said.

“So I’m really proud to be here this evening as the substantive Minister of Finance.”

Straughn added that continued national discipline would be key to sustaining the country’s progress.

“All I can say to Barbados is that once we continue to work together, display the kind of discipline that we know that we can, then we will be able to help transform Barbados into the country that we know that it can be.”

The Finance Minister is expected to outline the government’s fiscal plans and economic priorities for the coming year during the Budget presentation in the House of Assembly later this afternoon.