REPORT FROM THE CABINET OF ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA
METING OF WEDNESDAY 13th May 2026

The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda held its weekly meeting on Wednesday under the chairmanship of Prime Minister Gaston Browne and Sir Steadroy Benjamin, upon the departure of Prime Minister Browne who travelled to the United States late Wednesday afternoon. The Meeting commenced with prayer and meditation by a Catholic Priest and Deacon who read from the Gospel of John 16:12–15 which reminds us that God continues to guide His people through the wisdom and presence of the Holy Spirit. The Cabinet was told that Jesus told His disciples that there was still much for them to learn, but that the Spirit of Truth would lead them into all truth. For those entrusted with leadership and public service, this passage is a powerful reminder that wisdom, discernment and good governance require humility, patience and openness to divine guidance.

As the Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda continues its work on behalf of the people, this scripture encourages all leaders to seek clarity, unity and wisdom in decision-making. Leadership is not only about authority, but also about listening, learning and acting in the best interest of others, the Cabinet was told. Through faith, integrity and compassion, leaders can help build a stronger and more just society.

The Priest thanked God for His continued guidance and wisdom and prayed that the Spirit of Truth would lead the nation’s leaders into truth, understanding and righteousness. He prayed for the leaders of Antigua and Barbuda, asking that they be granted wisdom, humility and strength as they serve the people of the country. He further prayed that their decisions would promote justice, peace, unity and national development, while asking God to bless all those dedicated to public service and to continue guiding the nation forward through His grace.

1. The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda on Wednesday received a comprehensive update from the leadership of the Ministry of Works on the ongoing national road rehabilitation and infrastructure programme across the country.

The delegation included the Minister of State within the Ministry of Works, the Permanent Secretary, the Director of Works and the Deputy Director of Works, who briefed Cabinet on the progress being made on the All Saints Road project as well as ongoing roadworks in communities throughout Antigua and Barbuda.

The Ministry’s leadership advised Cabinet that work on the country’s road infrastructure will continue at its current pace, with increased focus now being placed on improving road networks within rural communities. Cabinet was informed that the Ministry remains committed to expanding and accelerating rehabilitation efforts to ensure safer, more reliable and more durable roads for residents and motorists across the country.

During the discussions, Cabinet approved the acquisition of two additional pieces of specialized equipment designed to facilitate roadworks in areas where road networks are narrower than standard roadway dimensions. The equipment is expected to significantly improve the Ministry’s capacity to undertake rehabilitation and paving works in smaller roads and difficult-to-access areas within various communities.

Cabinet also approved the engagement of additional technical experts to support and strengthen the ongoing work being carried out by the Ministry of Works. The additional expertise is expected to further improve project execution, efficiency and the overall quality of infrastructure development nationwide.

Cabinet used the opportunity to commend and thank the leadership and staff of the Ministry of Works for what was described as the excellent work currently being undertaken throughout Antigua and Barbuda. Ministers praised the dedication, professionalism and commitment of the Ministry’s team in advancing the Government’s ambitious infrastructure agenda and improving the quality of life for citizens and residents.

The Government reaffirmed its commitment to continued investment in road infrastructure as part of its broader national development strategy aimed at improving connectivity, enhancing public safety and supporting economic growth throughout Antigua and Barbuda.

• Cabinet has approved the establishment of a national Safe Haven for Women and Children in Need of Care and Protection, marking a major step forward in strengthening the country’s response to child protection and gender-based violence.

The initiative, led by the Ministry of Social and Urban Transformation, will create a dedicated, trauma-informed national facility to provide emergency shelter, therapeutic care, family strengthening, and structured reintegration support for vulnerable women and children.

Cabinet also approved the formalization of strategic partnerships to support the development and operation of the Safe Haven. Notably, Team Island Girls has committed EC$350,000 toward construction and capital development, representing the culmination of several years of fundraising in support of this national cause. An Alabama-based church partnership will provide volunteer labour, development support, furnishings, and community engagement assistance.

To complement these contributions, Cabinet has approved a Government capital investment of EC$500,000 to support land identification, site preparation, regulatory approvals, and initial construction works. This brings the total start-up funding envelope to EC$850,000.

The Safe Haven will operate as an integrated national protection mechanism under the joint leadership of the Family and Social Services Division and the Directorate of Gender Affairs. Oversight will include a dedicated steering committee to ensure strong governance, accountability, and coordinated service delivery.

Cabinet further authorized the execution of Memoranda of Understanding with the identified partners and directed the Attorney General’s Chambers to provide the necessary legal drafting support to facilitate timely implementation.

With this approval, Phase I activities are expected to commence within two weeks, enabling the immediate mobilization of partner contributions and the advancement of site and operational preparations.

This initiative addresses a longstanding gap in the national social protection framework and reinforces the Government’s commitment to safeguarding its most vulnerable citizens while advancing a coordinated and sustainable system of care.

• The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda today expressed profound condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of Okeen Lightfoot, an employee of the National Solid Waste Management Authority who tragically lost his life in a traffic accident while carrying out his duties.

Cabinet members observed the incident with deep sadness and extended sympathies to all members of the National Solid Waste Management Authority family during this difficult period. Ministers acknowledged the invaluable contribution made daily by sanitation and waste management workers who perform essential services to maintain the cleanliness, health and well-being of communities throughout Antigua and Barbuda.

The Cabinet also expressed grave concern over the increasing level of reckless and irresponsible driving on the nation’s roads. Ministers noted that the tragic death of Mr. Lightfoot preceded another recent incident in which another National Solid Waste Management Authority worker was struck by a vehicle while carrying out his duties along the roadway on Wednesday morning.

Cabinet is therefore appealing to all motorists to exercise greater caution, patience and responsibility while driving, particularly in areas where public workers are actively engaged in duties along roadways. The Government emphasized that road safety is a shared national responsibility and urged drivers to remain alert, obey traffic laws, reduce excessive speed and demonstrate greater consideration for pedestrians and frontline workers.

The Cabinet further reaffirmed its commitment to continuing discussions with relevant authorities and agencies on measures aimed at improving road safety and protecting workers who operate in vulnerable roadside environments.

The Cabinet also acknowledged the recent passing of former meteorologist Philbert Mason and contractor and philanthropist Evrod Roberts. In paying tribute, Cabinet underscored the exceptional and unmatched contribution of Mr. Mason to the field of meteorology and to the development of Antigua and Barbuda. Cabinet further recognized the life and legacy of Mr. Roberts, noting his enduring impact as a philanthropist, contractor, and dedicated supporter of culture and sports, whose contributions significantly advanced both the creative arts and the construction industry.

The Government of Antigua and Barbuda again extends heartfelt condolences to the families of Philbert Mason, Evrod Roberts and Okeen Lightfoot and prays for strength and comfort for all those affected by this tragic loss.

• The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda on Wednesday reviewed matters relating to employment obligations during public holidays and reaffirmed the provisions of the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Code regarding work requirements for employees, particularly those engaged in essential services.

Cabinet reiterated that under the Labour Code, employees who are rostered or scheduled to work on public holidays are required to report for duty and carry out their assigned responsibilities. Ministers emphasized that essential services play a critical role in maintaining the functioning of the country and ensuring the uninterrupted delivery of services to the public.

The Government noted that adherence to established work schedules and operational requirements is necessary to maintain efficiency, continuity and public confidence in essential national services.

Cabinet also reviewed a report submitted by the Ministry of Works concerning the building occupied by the Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP). According to the technical assessment conducted by the Ministry, the building has been deemed safe for occupancy and normal operations.

In light of the report, Cabinet advised that all employees attached to the Office of National Drug Control Policy are expected to continue carrying out their daily functions and responsibilities within the established work environment.

The Government reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring safe and suitable working conditions for all public sector employees while maintaining the efficient operation of public services throughout Antigua and Barbuda.

• The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has approved a major national policy initiative aimed at strengthening multilingual education and deepening cultural and economic engagement within the region by establishing Spanish as the country’s official second language.

As part of the policy decision, Cabinet has mandated the Ministry of Education and Science and Technology to begin restructuring the national curriculum at the pre-school, primary and secondary school levels to ensure that Spanish becomes a core subject within the education system.

Cabinet noted that the policy reflects Antigua and Barbuda’s growing regional and international engagement and recognizes the importance of equipping future generations with language skills that will expand educational, professional, diplomatic and economic opportunities.

The decision was also influenced by the longstanding historical, cultural and people-to-people connections between Antigua and Barbuda and the Dominican Republic. Cabinet acknowledged the significant contribution of the Dominican community to national development and the close relationship that continues to exist between the peoples of both countries.

The Government believes that strengthening Spanish language competency among citizens and residents will improve communication, regional integration, tourism, trade and workforce competitiveness, while enhancing Antigua and Barbuda’s capacity to engage more effectively with Spanish-speaking countries throughout Latin America and the Caribbean.

The Cabinet also approved the DRIP initiative, which will guide the development of a comprehensive Dominican Republic Integration Programme aimed at strengthening economic, cultural, and institutional linkages between Antigua and Barbuda and the Dominican Republic.

The programme is expected to facilitate smoother trade and investment flows, enhance cooperation in tourism and education, and provide structured support for Dominican nationals residing locally. Through targeted policy measures and collaborative frameworks, DRIP will promote social cohesion, improve access to services, and deepen bilateral engagement, positioning both countries to benefit from closer regional integration and shared development opportunities.

In a further move aimed at strengthening support services and communication with the Spanish-speaking community, Cabinet also approved the establishment of a Spanish Desk within the Office of the Prime Minister.

The Spanish Desk will serve as a direct point of engagement and assistance for members of the Spanish-speaking community residing in Antigua and Barbuda and will facilitate improved communication, access to government services and greater community integration.

Cabinet reaffirmed its commitment to policies that promote inclusion, education, regional cooperation and national development, while preparing the country and its people to thrive in an increasingly interconnected global environment

• The Attorney General on Wednesday formally presented a comprehensive slate of proposed legislation to be debated during the upcoming session of Parliament, outlining the Government’s continued commitment to strengthening governance, enhancing public safety, advancing social protection, and modernizing key areas of national development.

The proposed legislative agenda spans multiple sectors and reflects a coordinated, whole-of-government approach to addressing emerging challenges while reinforcing institutional effectiveness.

Among the measures to be tabled are several critical bills under the Ministry of Legal Affairs, Public Safety, Information and Labour, including reforms to policing, fire and rescue services, forensic services, and electronic crimes. Notably, amendments to existing laws addressing sexual offences, plea negotiations, and workplace violence and harassment are also set for debate, signaling a firm stance on justice, accountability, and the protection of vulnerable individuals.

In addition, the Attorney General highlighted forthcoming legislation specifically targeting vagrancy and child protection. Proposed updates to vagrancy laws aim to modernize the legal framework to better address homelessness and public order concerns through balanced, humane, and practical measures. Simultaneously, amendments to child abuse legislation are intended to strengthen safeguards for minors, enhance reporting mechanisms, and impose stricter penalties for offenders, reinforcing the Government’s zero-tolerance approach to the abuse and exploitation of children.

The Ministry of Health, Wellness, Environment and Civil Service Affairs will also bring forward a series of important bills, including those related to food safety, mental health, pharmacy regulation, and medical laboratories, all aimed at improving public health standards and regulatory oversight.

Further, under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Immigration, proposed legislation will address immigration and passport processes, as well as advance passenger information systems—key components in strengthening border security and international compliance.

The legislative package also includes measures under the Ministry of Finance, Corporate Governance and Public Private Partnerships, such as amendments to the Citizenship by Investment framework, alongside a Prices Bill aimed at enhancing consumer protection.

Social development remains a central priority, with amendments to laws concerning disabilities and equal opportunities to be introduced by the Ministry of Social and Urban Transformation, ensuring greater inclusion and equity for all citizens.

The Attorney General emphasized that this robust legislative agenda reflects the Government’s determination to build a safer, fairer, and more resilient society. He noted that the proposed laws are the result of extensive consultation and careful policy planning, and he urged all stakeholders to engage meaningfully in the parliamentary process.

The Government looks forward to constructive debate in Parliament and the timely passage of the measures in the interest of national development and the well-being of all citizens.