Local News

Housing Minister Condemns Opposition Rhetoric, Says ‘This Government Is Delivering’

10 December 2024
This content originally appeared on Antigua News Room.
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MP Maria Browne, Photo shot by prolific Antiguan Photographer Wayne Mariette, in the Lower House of Parliament on December 10, 2024, during the 2025 Budget Debate

Housing and Works Minister Maria Browne has rebuked the Leader of the Opposition for what she described as misleading and out-of-touch remarks made during the 2025 budget debate.

Speaking in Parliament, the MP for St. John’s Rural East rejected accusations that the government has failed to deliver on its promises, citing achievements in housing, construction, tourism, and other sectors.

“I don’t know which part of the country [the Leader of the Opposition] is living in or if it’s under a rock, but he’s clearly not aligned with the happenings of the day,” Browne said.

Responding to claims of underperformance, Browne detailed what she called “proof of the pudding in the eating,” listing projects and initiatives that she argued demonstrate the government’s success. These included:

The completion of major housing projects in Painters, Donovans, and Cassada Gardens.

The ongoing construction boom, which she said is the largest in the country’s history.

Improvements in water distribution, despite acknowledged challenges.

The delivery of 500 new jobs through the Royalton Chic development.

Browne also pointed to Antigua and Barbuda’s growing reputation as a conference hub, mentioning successful events like the SIDS conference and plans to host the OAS General Meeting In 2025 and the Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting in 2026.

“Whether you like it or not, this administration is delivering across every sector,” she said.

MP Browne accused the opposition of relying on misinformation and outdated rhetoric, arguing that their approach does not resonate with younger voters.

“Today’s population, especially those in my generation, are not buying this sort of rhetoric,” she said. “It’s about time the leadership of the opposition changes their approach because what they’re doing is only keeping their own people down.”

Browne also suggested that the opposition’s criticisms were counterproductive, undermining opportunities for wealth creation and development for the very citizens they represent.

“How is it that we expect to be a better nation when some of us don’t want good for everybody?” she asked, referencing the government’s focus on providing land, housing, and entrepreneurial opportunities for all.

The MP concluded her remarks with a call for national unity, urging all members of Parliament to work together to advance the country’s development.

“This is a time for us to come together, to encourage people to better themselves, to create wealth, and to upskill,” she said. “This government is performing, and we are delivering on our commitments to the people of Antigua and Barbuda.”

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