Massiah Questions Decision to Import Skilled Labourers Without Local Data

Massiah Questions Decision to Import Skilled Labourers Without Local Data

Senator David Massiah has criticised the government’s decision to import skilled labourers into Antigua and Barbuda, questioning the lack of data to justify the move.

During his presentation in the Senate budget debate, the Minority Leader argued that the absence of updated labour force surveys and empirical evidence leaves the country ill-equipped to assess whether local skill shortages truly exist.

“What sort of evidence do we have to suggest that the construction industry in Antigua is so lacking in skilled labourers that we must open the floodgates to foreign workers?” Massiah asked.

The senator pointed out that the last labour force survey was conducted in 2018, leaving a significant gap in understanding the nation’s unemployment and underemployment levels.

He argued that without current data, policies surrounding workforce development and employment are being made blindly.

Massiah further expressed concern that importing foreign labour risks “marginalising Antiguans and Barbudans”, particularly young people who are unable to find jobs despite completing their education.

He urged the government to prioritise local employment and ensure that decisions are guided by accurate and up-to-date statistics.

“Too many young people are graduating and saying they cannot find jobs. Where is the plan to address that?” he added.

The senator also called for a comprehensive workforce strategy, including an updated labour force survey, population census, and poverty assessments.

He said these tools are essential for formulating policies that can genuinely improve employment outcomes and address gaps in the labour market.

Massiah’s remarks come amid growing debate on the government’s plans to bolster the labour force to support major construction projects.

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