The Government of Saint Lucia has issued an official response to recent claims circulating across social media and informal channels suggesting that staff of the Inland Revenue Department (IRD) staged a “sick-out” and forced closures of tax offices. According to the IRD, these reports are inaccurate and misleading.
In a press release issued on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, the IRD categorically denied that the temporary office closures were linked to staff unrest, industrial action, or labor-related grievances. Instead, the department explained that these measures were taken solely as a health and safety precaution after concerns arose about air quality in several of its office spaces.
The department’s statement noted that the closures were limited to specific floors within government buildings in Castries to allow for deep-cleaning and sanitation.
These actions followed a public notice issued on January 26. Among the affected areas were the first and third floors of the Heraldine Rock Building and the third floor of the ECFH Building on Bridge Street. The IRD expects normal operations to resume in these locations by February 2.
Despite the temporary closures, the IRD confirmed that it continues to provide services through alternative office locations and its suite of online platforms. Members of the public seeking assistance were encouraged to make use of these alternative channels while sanitation work is completed.
The department also urged citizens and media practitioners to rely on official IRD communications and avoid engaging in or spreading speculation that could cause unnecessary concern. The government acknowledged any inconvenience caused by the closures and thanked the business community and the general public for their patience and cooperation during this period.
For further information, the IRD invited queries through its customer service email: customerservice@ird.gov.lc.