标签： Antigua and Barbuda

In a significant move to enhance its judicial system, Antigua and Barbuda has unveiled plans to repurpose its historic Parliament building into a dedicated Family Court. Governor General Sir Rodney Williams made the announcement during the Throne Speech on Thursday, emphasizing the project’s role in creating a specialized environment for handling sensitive family matters. The initiative, set to commence in 2026, aims to separate family cases from the general Magistrates’ Courts, ensuring a more focused and supportive setting for such proceedings. Sir Rodney highlighted that the restored building will serve as a flagship Family Court, setting a benchmark for the Eastern Caribbean region. This development is part of a broader justice-sector reform agenda, which includes expanding the Industrial Court, boosting legal drafting capabilities, and modernizing the Labour Code. These measures are designed to strengthen the rule of law and improve access to justice nationwide. Detailed plans for the reconstruction project are expected to be released in the coming months, marking a pivotal step in the country’s judicial modernization efforts.

Mill Academy marked its second anniversary on November 17th, 2025, with a vibrant celebration that united students, teachers, parents, and community partners. The event, themed ‘Growing Stronger, Reaching Higher,’ highlighted the school’s growth, unity, and dedication to fostering well-rounded learners in a nurturing environment. Chaired by Ms. Paulette Edwards, the ceremony featured a series of inspiring presentations, including an opening prayer by Ms. Neketia Spencer and a poignant poem, ‘Two Years Strong,’ delivered by Mrs. Julia Nathaniel. Students showcased their talents through musical renditions, dance performances, and a dramatic presentation, earning enthusiastic applause from the audience. Parent testimonials from Ms. Sasha Potter and Ms. Silvia Cozzi underscored the trust and transformative impact of the school community. Principal Kisma Panthier-Jn Pierre delivered a heartfelt address, reaffirming the Academy’s mission of love, structure, and holistic child development. Ms. Potter, the PTA President, also highlighted the success of the recent Independence Food Fair, which raised over EC$4,000 for campus improvements. As Mill Academy embarks on its third year, it remains committed to expanding programs, enhancing infrastructure, and strengthening partnerships with families.

Employees at Goddard Catering Group (GCG) are poised to receive a significant salary boost following successful negotiations between the Antigua and Barbuda Workers’ Union (ABWU) and GCG management. The agreement stipulates a six percent wage increase, to be implemented in annual increments of two percent over the next three years. This development marks a milestone in labor relations, particularly as the negotiations addressed two collective agreements simultaneously: one spanning July 1, 2019, to June 30, 2022, and another covering July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2025. Fernando Samuel, Senior Industrial Relations Officer, highlighted the unique nature of the talks, noting that the pandemic had disrupted discussions on the earlier agreement, leading to layoffs and severances. However, employees active between July 1, 2021, and June 30, 2022, will receive an additional increment for that period. GCG General Manager Mario Colindres expressed pride in the outcome, describing the process as amicable and beneficial for both the company and its staff. He emphasized GCG’s commitment to fostering a strong partnership with the Union to enhance employee welfare. Arion Ryan, GCG’s Head of HR, praised the smooth negotiations, while shop steward Neople Browne acknowledged that the agreement addressed many employee concerns. The ABWU commended GCG management for their cooperative approach and looks forward to future discussions.