Prime Minister Gaston Browne announced on Monday that the Home Improvement Programme for the Indigent (HAPI) will expand further with additional government funding through 2025.

This announcement coincided with the presentation of the latest HAPI home to a beneficiary in the Villa Area.

The Prime Minister expressed satisfaction with the program, which was initiated by Inspector Veldon Ragguette nearly a decade ago. Browne emphasized the government’s goal of assisting at least one hundred individuals annually through the initiative and disclosed that the Cabinet has approved an annual injection of $5 million into the program.

However, he acknowledged a significant challenge that could affect HAPI: the shortage of skilled labor, which has plagued other government housing programs as well. Given that inmates from HM Prison primarily comprise the workforce for HAPI, Browne suggested that involving more skilled inmates could help address this issue.

“I initiated discussions today with Attorney General Sir Steadroy Benjamin on leveraging prisoners with skills in construction trades—such as carpentry, plumbing, and masonry—who could be mandated to participate in the program,” the Prime Minister stated.

Browne acknowledged concerns about the security of inmates when they leave prison facilities but is optimistic about finding solutions. He mentioned that special constables or retired officers might be utilized to ensure safety while expanding HAPI. Moreover, he indicated that employing unemployed members of society could supplement the labor force.

The local MP also pointed out that retired builders and construction professionals would have the opportunity to contribute to HAPI’s mission of building homes for those in need.
Additionally, the Cabinet is considering providing free broadband internet services to HAPI recipients for one year.

Addressing the potential remuneration for participating inmates, the Prime Minister expressed support for a stipend that could benefit the families of those engaged in the program.

On that day, Ronald Mussington received the keys to a fully furnished 3-bedroom wooden home in Villa, complete with well-stocked cupboards.