A second shipment of construction materials has arrived in Antigua and Barbuda and preparations are now underway for distribution to vulnerable households across the country, Director General of Communications Maurice Merchant said during Thursday’s post-Cabinet briefing.

Merchant confirmed the arrival of the shipment after questions were raised about whether additional materials expected after the general election had reached the island.

“If not, it is here,” Merchant said in response to questions about the shipment’s arrival.

According to Merchant, Cabinet was informed that a distribution schedule is now being prepared to ensure the materials reach vulnerable and needy individuals across Antigua and Barbuda.

“The honourable minister announced to Cabinet yesterday that he is putting in place a schedule for the delivery of these items to the vulnerable and the most needy individuals in the island,” Merchant said.

The programme forms part of an initiative introduced by the Gaston Browne administration to assist households requiring construction support and building materials.

Merchant also highlighted the involvement of Urban and Social Transformation Minister Rawdon Turner in the ongoing effort.

He said Turner has been personally participating in weekend deliveries of materials to residents.

“On Saturdays and Sundays, the Honourable Rawdon Turner is out there delivering materials for individuals to fulfil this initiative introduced by the Gaston Browne administration,” Merchant said.

Officials did not disclose the quantity of materials included in the second shipment or specify which communities are expected to receive supplies first under the new distribution schedule.