Social Security Board Marks 45 Years With New Chair

The Social Security Board (SSB) celebrated its 45th anniversary on Monday, marking the occasion with the announcement of a new board chair.

Dr Sheree Smiling Craig has been appointed, succeeding Chandra Nisbet-Cansino, who stepped down after her tenure leading the institution. The Board praised Nisbet‑Cansino for her steady guidance and welcomed Dr Smiling Craig’s “wealth of experience, professional expertise, and strong commitment to public service.”

As part of the festivities, Prime Minister John Briceno also visited one of the SSB’s facilities on Monday to mark the anniversary. “Thank you so much for the wonderful work that you do across this country. I want to continue to encourage you to serve the people and serve them best. And to another 45 years,” he said in a social media post.

The anniversary comes as the SSB rolls out several changes. Since December 1, 2025, sickness benefit claims have gone fully online, removing the need to visit an office in person. A whistleblower reporting system has also been introduced to tackle fraud, misconduct, and false claims.

Meanwhile, the change with the most potential impact on workers and employers is still being discussed. The SSB recently completed consultations across the country on a proposal to move from a tier-based contribution system to a percentage-based one. 

Under the existing system, contributions are calculated in fixed brackets depending on how much a person earns. Under the proposed change, everyone would pay a set percentage of whatever they earn, regardless of income level.