Tax credits and cost-of-living relief feature prominently in the Barbados Labour Party’s (BLP) 2026 General Election manifesto, unveiled by Prime Minister Mia Mottley at a party rally at Golden Square on January 31.

The 75-page document, which outlines 14 “transformational initiatives”, was described by Mottley as more than a policy blueprint.

“This is Our Covenant with the People of Barbados,” she told supporters, adding that the manifesto represents a social contract with the electorate.

Here are some of the policies announced in the manifesto:

• Among the key proposals is a revision of the Tax Credit Programme. Eligibility would be expanded to include individuals earning between BBD$25,000 (BBD$1 = USD$0.50) and BBD$35,000 annually, who would receive a BBD$750 tax credit in addition to the compensatory income credit they have been receiving since 2019.
• For lower-income earners making up to BBD$25,000 per year, the Reverse Tax Credit would increase from BBD$1,300 to BBD$1,700.
• The manifesto also proposes the creation of a dedicated BBD$5 million annual fund to support churches and faith-based organisations that deliver programmes aimed at keeping young people off the streets, building skills and strengthening lives. The fund would be overseen by a special committee comprising representatives from churches, faith-based organisations and the government.
• In measures targeting public servants, the BLP plans to reserve at least 30 per cent of all houses or residential lots in government housing developments for public officers. The party also intends to increase the Training Loan Fund from BBD$10,000 to BBD$15,000 per individual, raise the vehicle loan limit for public officers from BBD$100,000 to BBD$125,000 for hybrid or electric vehicles, and from BBD$50,000 to BBD$75,000 for fuel or diesel vehicles.
• Another major pledge is the Barbados Republic Child Wealth Fund birthright dividend. Under the proposal, every child born in Barbados on or after November 30, 2021 would receive a one-time BBD$5,000 government investment. The funds would be held in trust until the child reaches between 18 and 25 years of age, with the investment compounding over time. Families and others would also be allowed to make additional contributions. The funds could later be used for housing, education or, in exceptional circumstances, health support.
• The BLP has also committed to constructing a desalination plant in St Lucy to improve water access for residents and businesses in the northern part of the island. Barbadians would be given the opportunity to own shares in the project alongside the Barbados Water Authority through what the party described as a fair and transparent investment structure.
• Pensioners would also benefit under the proposals. The taxable allowance for pensioners would increase from BBD$50,000 to BBD$75,000. In addition, pensioners, welfare recipients and individuals receiving special needs grants would receive a monthly cost-of-living cash credit of BBD$100, amounting to BBD$1,200 annually.
• On national security, the BLP plans to expand the Barbados Police Service from 1,530 officers to 1,750 and fill all vacant positions. The party also proposes targeted programmes for men, boys and fathers aimed at addressing social challenges and encouraging positive alternatives.