Goodridge: Some measures welcomed, but relief falls short

President of Friends of Democracy Senator Karina Goodridge says the 2026 Budget, while containing some positive steps, does not go far enough to ease the pressure on Barbadians already struggling with the cost of living.

She framed her response with a sharp critique of the tone of the presentation, saying it “began more like a victory speech than a sober national update”, before pointing to what she described as a mix of prudent decisions and missed opportunities.

Among the positives, Goodridge acknowledged Government’s decision not to introduce new taxes, noting: “To his credit, no new taxes were introduced to further burden citizens. In the current climate of global uncertainty … this restraint is welcome.”

She also supported the move to hedge oil prices at US$92 per barrel, describing it as “a prudent move” offering “a measure of short-term stability in volatile times”, and adding that “efforts to cushion energy costs are necessary and appreciated”.

But the core concern, she suggested, is whether those measures translate into meaningful relief for households.

“Government has repeatedly highlighted the fiscal space created following the conclusion of the IMF programme. Against that backdrop, the provision of a $100 monthly cash credit, while helpful, appears insufficient in the face of the current cost of living. Many Barbadians will struggle to see this as meaningful relief.”

Goodridge also raised concern about uncertainty surrounding the reverse tax credit, warning that the Government’s position could undermine confidence in the measure.

“The statement by Minister Ryan Straughn that the Government is not obligated to distribute the credit if it does not have the funds raises serious concerns.

This introduces uncertainty around commitments that many citizens depend on.”

She further pointed to what she described as a disconnect between some policy suggestions and everyday realities, particularly the call for greater reliance on public transport.

“Such advice is only practical if the public transport system is reliable and efficient,” she said, adding: “Without addressing these longstanding issues, this recommendation risks being disconnected from everyday reality.”

On renewable energy, Goodridge said while the push towards solar lighting was commendable, key gaps remained in making alternatives accessible.
“It was disappointing that no mention was made of removing VAT on solar products, an obvious step that would make renewable energy solutions more accessible to the average Barbadian.”

She also questioned increased allocations to foreign companies, warning: “Increasing this commitment without measurable outcomes raises questions about priorities and accountability.”

And while the proposed grant for multiple births introduces targeted support, she argued it would have limited reach.

“A policy focused on multiple births will benefit only a very small number of households each year and is unlikely to… meaningfully address the financial challenges faced by the majority of mothers and families in Barbados.”

Even so, Goodridge acknowledged that some indicators were trending positively, noting that “the macroeconomic indicators are pointing in the right direction” and that the Government appeared to be responding to concerns around rising prices.

Still, her overall assessment remained: “In summary, while there were some prudent measures announced, significant gaps remain between policy suggestions and the lived realities of Barbadians.”