Prime Minister Dr Terrance Drew has sought to reassure the public that nationals transferred to St Kitts and Nevis under a migration cooperation arrangement with the United States are thoroughly screened and do not pose a security threat to the Federation.

Speaking during the July 16 edition of the Prime Minister’s Round Table, Drew said the agreement applies to nationals of Caribbean Community (CARICOM) member states and gives St Kitts and Nevis the authority to reject anyone who does not meet its security requirements.

“The individuals transferred to St Kitts and Nevis were subject to background, immigration, medical and security assessments before their arrival,” the prime minister said.

“So these are not criminals. We have no reason to lock them up or anything like that.”

In May, the government confirmed that three CARICOM nationals had been transferred from the United States under the arrangement. Officials said the individuals were transferred because of immigration violations in the US and not because of criminal convictions.

According to the government, the United States provided available biographical, medical and criminal background information before the transfers, while national security, immigration and law enforcement agencies in St Kitts and Nevis were involved in the vetting process.

Drew said the agreement preserves the Federation’s sovereignty by allowing the government to decide whether to accept or reject any proposed transfer.

He also noted that the memorandum of understanding specifically excludes individuals convicted of violent or sexual offences.

“There will be measures taken to ensure that St Kitts and Nevis is not exposed to any criminals,” the prime minister said, adding that the government would act if information later emerged showing that an individual fell outside the terms of the agreement.

The prime minister said the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) also participated in the process by providing independent oversight and helping to ensure the transfers complied with international law, humanitarian standards and the rights of those involved.

Addressing concerns over the financial implications of the programme, Drew said the cost of supporting transferred individuals—including housing, food, clothing and healthcare—is assessed on a case-by-case basis and is not being paid by the Government of St Kitts and Nevis.

“I can say broadly that, one, it didn’t cost St Kitts and Nevis one cent, and two, we made sure that the basics were covered for these people,” he said.

Drew maintained that his administration remains committed to balancing its international and regional obligations with its responsibility to protect the country’s security and national interests.

He said the government would continue to apply strict immigration, security and law enforcement procedures to every individual considered under the arrangement.