Budget Debate to Resume Monday With Major Sector Reforms on Agenda

Parliament will resume the 2026 Budget Debate on Monday, with government ministers expected to outline major policy initiatives across health care, education, agriculture, digital transformation and national infrastructure. The update was delivered during Friday’s post-Cabinet media briefing by Director General of Communications Maurice Merchant.

Merchant said ministers will expand on measures announced in the Prime Minister’s budget presentation, including record fiscal performance, sector modernization, and several new social and development programmes.

The debate follows Thursday’s delivery of the national budget, which Cabinet described as a people-centered plan built on economic, social and climate resilience.

According to the briefing, the Minister of Sports, Daryl Matthew, will provide details on the newly endorsed national sports development system, including a planned Center of Excellence and the use of rural fields as training hubs.

The Minister of Agriculture, Anthony Smith, is also set to present what Merchant previewed as a significant new programme aimed at strengthening food production, supporting farmers and introducing modern agricultural initiatives.

Other ministries are expected to address wide-ranging reforms highlighted in Cabinet discussions, including health-sector upgrades such as the reopening of the cancer centre in early 2026, the launch of a chest and cardiac centre in partnership with China, and the introduction of National Health Insurance.

The debate will also feature updates on government plans to supply construction materials to vulnerable households, expand national broadband through APUA’s new WITS programme, and advance preparations for hosting the 2026 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting.

Opposition MP’s, including leader of the opposition Jamale Pringle will responds to the budget.

Advertise with the mоѕt vіѕіtеd nеwѕ ѕіtе іn Antigua!
We offer fully customizable and flexible digital marketing packages.
Contact us at [email protected]