Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has vowed to redirect state resources towards law-abiding, hardworking citizens, warning that laziness, dishonesty and the misuse of government assistance will no longer be rewarded.
In a statement ahead of the presentation of the 2027 national budget, scheduled for October 12, Persad-Bissessar said the government would prioritise citizens who work honestly, pursue education, make responsible decisions and contribute productively to society.
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She argued that public funds, generated through taxpayers’ contributions, should support economic growth and reward genuine effort rather than sustain individuals who misuse state assistance for personal gain.
“Law-abiding taxpayers must no longer foot the bills of indisciplined lazy persons who take no personal responsibility, put no effort into productive activities and only seek to receive income through deception, fraud and corruption,” Persad-Bissessar said.
The prime minister alleged that some individuals had turned temporary welfare programmes, government contracts, public assistance and employment in state agencies into long-term arrangements for generating income dishonestly.
She said her administration would seek to address these practices and ensure that public revenue is directed towards productive initiatives, economic development and the payment of workers who perform their duties honestly.
Persad-Bissessar also argued that the country’s progress had been constrained by individuals who, despite receiving government assistance and other opportunities, failed to take responsibility for improving their circumstances.
She said her government intended to move away from what she described as governing to secure the next election, instead pursuing policies aimed at creating long-term prosperity, discipline and opportunities for future generations.
The prime minister said the country needed to be rebalanced in favour of citizens who obey the law, work diligently and behave honestly, rather than those who engage in fraud, corruption and other forms of irresponsible conduct.
Her comments come as the government prepares to present its 2027 national budget, which is expected to outline its spending priorities and economic plans for the coming fiscal year.
The administration has framed its approach as an effort to promote accountability in the use of public funds while supporting citizens who contribute to national development.
However, the practical impact of the proposed approach will depend on the budget measures introduced and how the government distinguishes between deliberate misuse of public resources and legitimate reliance on social assistance.
