NIS MOVING ON UP

The new headquarters of the National Insurance Services (NIS) will be officially opened next Wednesday, October 22nd, 2008.{{more}}

The NIS, formerly the National Insurance Scheme, began its operations in the same building that housed the National Provident Fund at its location at Upper Bay Street, Kingstown (the building which is currently occupied by the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Port Authority). Within two years of operations, it became apparent that this building was inadequate for the needs of the expanding institution, and that by and large, the general environment was not conducive to productivity.

In 1992, the office was relocated to the ground floor of the prestigious Administrative Building. This was a considerable improvement on what obtained before and the office has served the NIS well over the past sixteen (16) years.

However, the NIS is a dynamic institution, and over the years staff increased to meet the expansion of our services, thus precipitating the need for change to a new location.

The first step in laying the groundwork for the new headquarters began when the property that was owned and occupied by the St. Vincent Arrowroot Association was purchased by the National Insurance Board. This was used as the catalyst for the construction of a new, viable, state of the art building to provide accommodation for the staff of the NIS and to complement the Government’s development plan for Kingstown.

In 2002, when NIS celebrated its 15th anniversary, the process began with the groundbreaking ceremony at this site. From that time, relentless efforts were made to come up with a suitable design to enhance the aesthetics and unique features of the surroundings. Of the three bids that were received, the National Insurance Board finally approved the concept that was submitted by Moulton Mayers Architects for the construction of a four storey building designed to accommodate the NIS, the NHI, as well as making allowance for rental space for tenants.

The building is fully equipped with parking facilities, a conference room, a training room, modern kitchenette and spacious offices that should enhance productivity.

We believe that this is a worthwhile venture that will go a long way in improving the quality of our services to our clientele, particularly the aged in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

The official opening ceremony will take place at the new headquarters and will begin at 3:30 p.m. Guests are required to be seated by 3:00 p.m.