Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar Highlights CEPEP, URP, Reforestation in Pre-Budget Talk

July 30, 2025 – During a pre-budget consultation held last evening, Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar firmly indicated her administration’s commitment to maintaining the Community-based Environmental Protection and Enhancement Programme (CEPEP), the Unemployment Relief Programme (URP), and the National Reforestation Programme.

She said there is no intention to completely discontinue these initiatives, acknowledging that many within her constituency had anticipated their continuation. The Prime Minister also addressed concerns about the misdirection or exploitation within the programs, signalling the need for careful re-evaluation of how they operate. She said her government would not tolerate exploitative practices that undermine these initiatives, reinforcing her administration’s commitment to ensuring their proper and equitable functioning. The Prime Minister underscored the need for a fresh start for these critical social programs.