The Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP) says it will introduce a programme to better integrate Spanish-speaking residents, as it stepped up outreach to the community ahead of the April 30 general election.

Prime Minister Gaston Browne announced the proposed Dominican Republic Integration Programme (DRIP) during a packed meeting at the Multi-Purpose Cultural Centre on Friday night, where attendees filled the venue to capacity.

Browne, joined by St. John’s Rural South candidate Daryll Matthew and St. John’s Rural West candidate Michael M. Joseph, said the initiative would be coordinated through a unit in the Office of the Prime Minister.

The programme would allow residents to register their skills so they can be matched with jobs aligned to their qualifications, with the aim of improving employment opportunities and income levels.

Browne also said participants would be able to access the Prime Minister’s Entrepreneurial Fund to support small business development, adding that discussions would be held with credit unions and other financial institutions to expand access to financing.

As part of the plan, the government would offer free English language classes in communities with large Spanish-speaking populations to improve communication and integration.

During a question-and-answer segment, several attendees raised concerns about delays in obtaining Antigua and Barbuda passports after applying for citizenship, with some reporting waits of more than a year. Browne said the process would be reviewed to identify bottlenecks.

Concerns were also raised about treatment at the Immigration Department. Browne acknowledged the complaints and said the issues would be examined.

While branded around the Dominican Republic, Browne said the programme would apply to all Spanish-speaking residents, including nationals from countries such as Cuba.

The meeting is part of the ABLP’s broader campaign efforts to expand support among diverse communities ahead of the general election.