$60 million spent on back pay since 2022 and more to come

Public servants will receive another round of retroactive wage payments this month, Prime Minister Gaston Browne announced Thursday, as the government continues clearing longstanding arrears owed to workers across the public sector.

Browne made the statement during the presentation of the 2026 national budget, highlighting the administration’s efforts to settle outstanding obligations and restore confidence in the government’s payroll system. He said more than $60 million in retroactive wages has already been paid since 2022, with a further payout now underway.

“Since 2022, our administration has cleared over $60 million in retroactive wages owed to public servants,” Browne told Parliament. “Later this month, we will make a further payment, ensuring that every eligible worker, including those who left the public service before December 2022, receives what is rightfully theirs.”

The Prime Minister said clearing the arrears reflects the government’s commitment to fairness and responsible governance, adding that workers should never have to wait years for money owed to them. He described the decision to prioritize retroactive payments as an example of “caring leadership.”

Browne said the arrears stemmed from previous administrations and years of stalled wage negotiations, but added that his government has “faced the responsibility head-on” and is determined to prevent the buildup of future back pay. As part of the reform effort, the wage negotiation process is being restructured to ensure timely settlements.

The Prime Minister linked the retroactive payments to the country’s broader fiscal turnaround, citing surpluses and stronger revenue performance that have given the government room to meet its obligations. He said the administration will continue to honor its commitments to workers, pensioners and retirees as the economy expands.

The budget debate resumes next week, when ministers are expected to provide more details on payroll reforms and the timeline for completing outstanding payments.

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