Kingstown, St. Vincent and the Grenadines – Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves has weighed in on growing concerns over the construction of a lavish residence for Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) Governor Timothy Antoine, reportedly costing XCD $22 million. However, while addressing the issue, the Vincentian leader remained tight-lipped on the authenticity of a leaked letter allegedly sent by him to the ECCU Monetary Council.
Speaking on a local radio program, Gonsalves acknowledged the exorbitant cost of the official residence, stating, “It is true that there is a dwelling being built for the governor by the central bank, where the price tag is wholly excessive and does not reflect a particular level of prudence.”
Despite his criticism of the spending, Gonsalves neither confirmed nor denied the existence of the letter that purportedly expressed his frustration over the matter. However, he revealed that he had been recently informed about the construction and had since engaged his fellow ECCU heads of government on the issue.
“That is a matter on which I was recently advised, and it’s a matter on which I have engaged my colleagues. I am hopeful it will be resolved in a manner satisfactory for the people of the currency union,” Gonsalves stated.
The residence, spanning 10,000 square feet, is being constructed in St. Kitts and Nevis. While Gonsalves remained non-committal on the alleged correspondence, Daily Post has confirmed that Antigua and Barbuda’s Prime Minister, Gaston Browne, has acknowledged receipt of the letter.
The issue has sparked public debate, with concerns over fiscal responsibility and transparency within the ECCB, which serves as the financial backbone of the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union.
