Basseterre, Saint Kitts, June 11, 2026 (PMO) — Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew, has reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to ensuring that every citizen of Saint Kitts and Nevis has meaningful access to banking services following the passage of the Banking (Amendment) Bill, 2026, in the National Assembly, today, June 11th.
During his contribution to the debate on the legislation, Prime Minister Drew stressed that modern banking services must be inclusive and accessible to all members of society, including young people, the elderly, persons living with disabilities and low-income earners.
“The Monetary Council has instructed the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank to ensure that banks become more accessible, Madam Speaker. Why have a bank if people can access it? The bank must become more responsive, Madam Speaker, to our people, to our citizens, and the bank must also be, of course, an institution that is more customer friendly,” he said.
The Banking (Amendment) Bill, 2026 advances several measures designed to promote financial inclusion and remove unnecessary barriers that prevent citizens from participating fully in the banking system.
Prime Minister Drew reminded lawmakers that the principle of financial inclusion has long been embedded in the Federation’s development story, referencing the origins of indigenous banking and the efforts made decades ago to ensure ordinary people could save and build wealth through formal financial institutions.
“The foundational principles of the bank was always even those with pennies are welcome, Madam Speaker,” he said, while urging financial institutions to remain true to those values.
Access to banking services should not be restricted by income level or social standing, the Prime Minister argued, particularly as financial services become increasingly essential for employment, education, entrepreneurship and economic participation.
“Low-income persons must be protected and be treated fairly, Madam Speaker, and must have access to what you call basic a basic bank account,” Prime Minister Drew stated.
The passage of the Banking (Amendment) Bill, 2026 marks another important step in the Government’s efforts to create a more inclusive, equitable and people-centred financial sector in Saint Kitts and Nevis.
