“This government is working to pass laws on the state of the child. We do not want, in Saint Lucia, children people called bastards or legitimate children. Once you are Saint Lucian, we see you as equal and we are working to pass laws like that.” Henry said in a speech addressing Labour Party supporters. 

Henry also made an appeal to fathers across the island to care for their offspring. The Minister also announced that new legislation will be passed to ensure fathers are responsible for the upkeep of their children. Henry further stated that the child support fees will be increased in future legislation. 

“There is a law we are looking at; child maintenance - we are also looking at. Because the $200 they give the mothers isn’t enough, so we are looking at that. We have no problem with men, but we care about children who are suffering”. 

In addition, Henry spoke about children who are currently in foster care. He says the government continues to provide foster parents and children with the support they need. 

“We have over 176 children in foster care [...] we are providing support to these children.” 

While the Minister was unable to provide a tentative date for the introduction of this legislation, he said it will be coming soon.