In a decisive move to address rising security concerns, the government has sanctioned the immediate deployment and enhancement of surveillance camera systems in all national public schools. This initiative comes in the wake of a surge in break-ins and security breaches at educational institutions, which have raised alarms among educators and parents alike. Maurice Merchant, the Director General of Communications, confirmed that the Cabinet has earmarked funds for the procurement and installation of these systems, underscoring the administration’s dedication to bolstering safety and safeguarding school assets. Merchant emphasized that this project aligns with the government’s broader strategy to fortify security within the education sector, ensuring the protection of both students and school property. The Ministry of Education will spearhead the initiative, with installations slated to commence without delay. Recent incidents of vandalism and theft have intensified demands for robust security measures, prompting this swift action. The advanced surveillance system will feature real-time monitoring and recording functionalities, enabling authorities to deter unauthorized access and respond promptly to potential threats. Officials highlighted that this security upgrade complements other significant investments in the education sector, including infrastructure improvements and the integration of technology-driven learning environments, all aimed at enhancing safety and academic outcomes.
标签： Antigua and Barbuda
安提瓜和巴布达
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15 Homes to Be Built Under ‘Build on Your Own Land’ Programme
The National Housing and Urban Development Company Limited (NHUDC) has unveiled plans to construct 15 new homes across Antigua and Barbuda as part of its innovative ‘Build on Your Own Land Programme.’ This initiative is designed to assist individuals who already own land but require government-supported construction to develop their properties. The project will span multiple communities, including Painters, Radio Range, Villa, Low Pasture, Clarks Hill, All Saints, Jennings, Quesada Gardens, New Winthrops, McKinnons, Glanvilles, and Herberts. Maurice Merchant, Director General of Communications, emphasized that the programme is a cornerstone of the government’s broader affordable housing strategy, which seeks to enhance homeownership accessibility while boosting employment in the construction industry. NHUDC is currently inviting qualified contractors to bid for the construction projects, which will be executed on privately owned lands. Unlike conventional government housing schemes, the ‘Build on Your Own Land’ initiative empowers individuals to build homes on their existing properties, with design and financing assistance provided by NHUDC. The company has indicated that the programme will be expanded in phases, aligning with national efforts to increase housing availability and foster community development.
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Antigua Cabinet Orders End to All Tax Concessions Effective November 30
In a significant move to overhaul its fiscal policies, the government of Antigua and Barbuda has declared that all existing tax concessions for businesses and entities will be terminated effective November 30. This decision is part of a broader reform aimed at enhancing transparency, aligning policies with national priorities, and fostering fair competition. Starting December 1, 2025, businesses and ongoing projects will need to reapply for concessions under a new framework designed to ensure that incentives align with the country’s sustainable development and investment goals. Maurice Merchant, the Director General of Communications, emphasized during a post-Cabinet briefing that this measure will enable the government to reassess which sectors genuinely require support. He highlighted that the initiative aims to “promote fair competition” and strengthen accountability in the allocation of tax benefits. Merchant also pointed out that past broad-based concessions were often misused by businesses for projects beyond their original approval scope. The reform is expected to realign incentives with long-term objectives, including investments in green energy, tourism diversification, and the development of health and education sectors. While the decision will impact industries such as tourism, manufacturing, and renewable energy, officials clarified that qualified projects will still receive support. However, the reapplication process will ensure that incentives are appropriately scaled and compliant with updated national policies.
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Antigua Government to Host National Workshop for Building Contractors
The government of Antigua and Barbuda is set to host a national workshop aimed at enhancing the capabilities of building contractors across the nation. Scheduled to take place shortly after the Independence celebrations, the event is being spearheaded by the Minister for Works. Contractors from all regions of Antigua and Barbuda are expected to participate in this comprehensive initiative. The workshop will delve into essential topics such as contract preparation, construction standards, project management, quality control, collaboration with government agencies, and workforce development. Senior Cabinet members, including Prime Minister Gaston Browne and Sir Molwyn Joseph, Minister for Health, Wellness, and the Environment, will deliver presentations during the sessions. According to Maurice Merchant, Director General of Communications, the workshop aims to foster stronger partnerships between the government and the private construction sector. It will also identify training and certification needs and explore financing initiatives to support small and medium-sized contractors in expanding their businesses and competing more effectively for both government and private sector projects. This initiative is part of the Cabinet’s ongoing efforts to modernize the construction industry, ensuring greater efficiency, safety, and quality in national development projects.
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Gail Christian Appointed Consul General in Toronto
In a significant diplomatic move, Gail Christian, a seasoned political and legal figure, has been appointed as Antigua and Barbuda’s new Consul General in Toronto, Canada. The announcement was made by Maurice Merchant, Director General of Communications, during a post-Cabinet briefing. This appointment underscores the Gaston Browne administration’s dedication to empowering women in leadership roles. Christian, who previously served as the country’s Ambassador to Mexico and held various high-ranking diplomatic and legal positions, will now manage consular operations in Toronto, a hub for one of Antigua and Barbuda’s largest diaspora communities. Joining her is Zeina Heshmi, a Foreign Service Officer from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, who will assume the role of First Secretary. Merchant emphasized that these appointments reflect the administration’s consistent efforts to promote women to pivotal government positions, stating that both appointees will leverage their expertise to serve the nation and its people effectively.
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Cabinet to Implement New Government Vehicle Policy Within 14 Days
The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has unveiled a comprehensive government vehicle policy, set to be implemented within the next 14 days. This initiative aims to strengthen oversight over the use, allocation, and disposal of government-owned vehicles, marking a significant step toward improving fiscal responsibility and transparency.
Maurice Merchant, Director General of Communications, revealed the details during a post-Cabinet briefing on Thursday. He emphasized that the policy is a direct response to findings from a recent audit, which uncovered unauthorized vehicle purchases and mismanagement within the government fleet.
Under the new regulations, government vehicles will be allocated strictly based on official duties, with usage confined to authorized government business. Passengers must also be on official duty unless prior approval is granted or in emergency situations. Additionally, all vehicles must be parked at designated government locations after daily operations. Vehicles deemed unsuitable for use or exceeding five years of service will be disposed of through public auctions, in compliance with state asset disposal laws.
To ensure accountability, an advisory committee will be established to oversee vehicle allocation and usage across ministries and departments. Merchant also confirmed that vehicles purchased without Cabinet authorization will be auctioned to recover public funds. This decision follows an ongoing review by the Financial Secretary, which exposed irregularities in vehicle procurement.
The policy rollout comes on the heels of the government’s recent success in recovering EC$10 million from a dealership involved in unauthorized vehicle transactions. This move underscores the administration’s commitment to addressing financial mismanagement and safeguarding public resources.
By introducing these measures, the government aims to streamline its vehicle fleet, reduce unnecessary expenditures, and foster greater public trust in its operations.
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Antigua and Barbuda Art Week 2025 to Showcase an Impressive Line-Up of Artists
The third edition of Antigua and Barbuda Art Week is set to captivate audiences from November 26 to December 2, 2025, with a dazzling array of cultural activities. This year’s theme, ‘Culture in Colour,’ promises to highlight the artistic brilliance of over fifty local and international artists. The event will feature artist workshops, art exhibitions, and guided bus tours to studios and galleries across the twin-islands, offering a comprehensive immersion into the region’s creative spirit. Among the celebrated artists are Heather Doram, Mark Brown, and Makŏ Williams, alongside emerging talents from the Antigua and Barbuda College of Advanced Studies. A special tribute at the Barracks Studio in Redcliffe Quay will honor the legacy of late Antiguan artists, showcasing their enduring impact on the nation’s cultural identity. The week will also include live performances, interactive sip-and-paint sessions, and panel discussions, such as ‘The Future of Caribbean Creativity,’ featuring diaspora artists like Kwame Delfish and Odessa Whitlock. Fashion designer Garrett Javan will debut his latest collection, ‘ZOIGE,’ while the ‘Heart for Art’ installations and murals will provide Instagram-worthy photo opportunities. With events like ‘Mandalas and Mojitos,’ ‘Rhythm and Vibes,’ and ‘Brunch with the Arts,’ the festival promises to be a dynamic blend of art, music, and culinary delights. Organized by the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority, the Department of Culture, and Long Bay Brewing, Art Week 2025 is a must-attend celebration of Caribbean creativity.
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Lewis Calls for Independent Probe
Richard S. Lewis, an opposition Member of Parliament, has demanded an independent investigation into allegations of systemic corruption in Antigua and Barbuda, following Prime Minister Gaston Browne’s recent remarks on the issue. Lewis emphasized that corruption is severely undermining the nation’s integrity and hindering its developmental progress. He described those involved in corrupt activities as “dishonest, deceitful, and rotten,” while asserting that individuals who ignore such practices are equally responsible. Lewis called on the government to implement robust legislation and enforcement mechanisms to combat corruption, warning against the normalization of such practices. He specifically referenced the Vehiclegate scandal and other corruption cases, insisting that all involved must be held accountable. “Let the independent investigation begin, and let the chips fall where they may,” Lewis declared, urging transparency and justice.
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WIOC to Conduct Oil Spill Response Drill on Thursday
The West Indies Oil Company (WIOC) is set to conduct a meticulously planned oil spill response drill on Thursday, October 23. This exercise, a collaborative effort with the National Office of Disaster Services (NODS) and the Antigua and Barbuda Department of Marine Services (ADOMS), will unfold near the Sea Island Jetty. The primary objective of this simulation is to rigorously assess the nation’s preparedness, emergency coordination capabilities, and environmental protection protocols in the face of a potential oil spill. WIOC emphasizes that this drill underscores their unwavering dedication to environmental stewardship and operational readiness. Local residents and mariners are reassured that the activities are part of a controlled and well-organized simulation, ensuring minimal disruption and heightened awareness.
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PM Browne Announces Public Auction of Excess Vehicles Following Vehicle Audit
In a decisive move to enhance transparency and accountability, Prime Minister Gaston Browne of Antigua and Barbuda has announced that any surplus vehicles identified during the ongoing audit of the government’s fleet will be auctioned off. This initiative is part of a broader effort to streamline public asset management and recover misallocated funds. Browne revealed that one car dealer has already committed to repaying $10 million to the government, marking a significant step in addressing irregularities tied to past vehicle procurements. The comprehensive audit seeks to meticulously document all vehicles purchased in recent years, verify their distribution across various ministries, and ensure the judicious use of public resources. This measure underscores the administration’s commitment to fiscal responsibility and combating inefficiency within the public sector.