There is no evidence to suggest an increase in social assistance applications following the closure of the Community-Based Environmental Protection and Enhancement Programme (CEPEP).
That assurance came from Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of the People, Social Development and Family Services, Dr. Natalie Chaitan-Maharaj, while responding to a question in the Senate on Tuesday.
During the sitting, Independent Senator Dr. Marlene Attzs asked whether the closure or restructuring of CEPEP had led to an increase in applications for social assistance, food support, or other welfare programmes.
In response, Dr. Chaitan-Maharaj said a review of applications from before and after the closure in July 2025 showed no direct correlation, with only 441 new applications.
“From the period July 2024 to March 2025, there were 2,689 applications, and from the period July 2025 to March 2026, there were 3,130 applications. Based on the data analysis undertaken, no direct correlation or causation can be established between the increase in new applications for the two grants mentioned and the discontinuation of the Community-Based Environmental Protection and Enhancement Programme.”
Dr. Chaitan-Maharaj said the Ministry continues to support vulnerable households through a range of social assistance grants, which remain accessible to former CEPEP workers.
She also noted that Government has revised the Standard Means Test used to assess eligibility for several social safety net programmes, broadening access to support.
“Cabinet approved a 42% increase in the poverty threshold applied under the SMT to more accurately reflect the country’s current economic realities. This adjustment is expected to expand access to social assistance by allowing a greater number of low income and financially vulnerable households to qualify for support, including households whose income may have been adversely affected by the discontinuation of CEPEP’s routine operations.”
The change to the threshold will take effect from June 1st, 2026.