CABINET NOTES: June 4th 2026

REPORT FROM THE CABINET OF ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA
MEETING OF THURSDAY 4^th JUNE 2026

Cabinet commenced its sitting on Thursday with a devotional reflection led by Rev. George Delpesche, of the Beacon Light Church of the Nazarene. Drawing from Proverbs 3, he encouraged members to allow mercy and truth to guide their actions and decisions, reminding them that godly leadership is rooted in wisdom, integrity, and faithfulness.

Referencing Deuteronomy 17:18-20, Rev. Delpesche reflected on the responsibilities of those entrusted with authority, emphasizing that all authority ultimately comes from God and should be exercised with humility and a sincere commitment to justice and service. He urged the Cabinet members to govern with courage, seek wisdom in the conduct of public affairs, and emulate the faith and steadfastness of biblical leaders such as King David.

The Pastor offered prayers for the Cabinet, asking that God grant its members wisdom, discernment, courage, good health, and long life as they discharge their duties. He also prayed for their families, recognizing the sacrifices they make in support of national service.

May the members of the Cabinet be guided by mercy and truth, strengthened by faith, and inspired to serve the people of Antigua and Barbuda with integrity, compassion, and unwavering dedication, the Pastor prayed.

1.     The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has expressed its full support for the introduction of a new digital application,Main Collect, designed to significantly improve the collection and disbursement of child maintenance payments throughout Antigua and Barbuda and, eventually, across the OECS.

The Cabinet received a presentation from the Registrar of the Family Court, Fanella Francis; Crown Counsel, Allicia Aska; and a local digital application developer on ongoing efforts by the Family Court to address longstanding challenges associated with the payment and collection of child maintenance.

During the presentation, Cabinet was advised that the issue of delinquent child maintenance payments has reached critical levels, with between 1,500 and 2,500 fathers currently listed on the Court’s records as having child maintenance obligations. Officials noted that the growing number of outstanding payments continues to place significant financial hardship on mothers, guardians, and, most importantly, the children who depend on such support.

The team presented the Main Collect application, an innovative digital platform that is expected to be fully operational within the next six months. Cabinet was informed that the application has already received the approval of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court and is expected to be rolled out throughout the member states of the OECS.

The Main Collect platform will modernize and streamline the child maintenance payment process by allowing fathers to make payments electronically through the application while enabling mothers and guardians to access and monitor those payments in a secure and efficient manner. The system will also provide the Court with real-time data on payments made, outstanding balances, compliance rates, and other critical information necessary for the effective administration of child maintenance matters.

Cabinet welcomed the initiative as an important step toward improving accountability, reducing payment delinquency, and ensuring that children receive the financial support to which they are entitled. Members of Cabinet commended the Family Court and its partners for embracing technology to address a longstanding social challenge and improve access to justice.

The discussion also explored a number of complementary measures aimed at strengthening compliance with child maintenance orders. Among the options considered were legislative amendments to provide stronger enforcement mechanisms, including the possibility of incarceration for persistent defaulters, the establishment of a register of delinquent fathers, and enhanced collaboration with employers to facilitate deductions from the salaries and wages of individuals who repeatedly fail to meet their maintenance obligations.

Cabinet recognized that while technological solutions such as Main Collect will greatly improve the administration and monitoring of maintenance payments, a comprehensive approach involving legislative, administrative, and societal support may also be necessary to address chronic non-compliance.

The Cabinet reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the welfare and best interests of children and pledged its continued support for initiatives that strengthen family responsibility and ensure that parents meet their legal obligations to support their children.

Cabinet looks forward to the successful implementation of Main Collect and its positive impact on thousands of families throughout Antigua and Barbuda.

2.     The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has approved a new management structure for the fisheries complexes located in Antigua and Barbuda, aimed at improving operational efficiency, strengthening accountability, and enhancing services provided to fishers and the wider public.

During its meeting, Cabinet reviewed the current condition and management arrangements of the fisheries complexes on both islands. Particular attention was given to the facilities at Point, Parham, and Urlings in Antigua, as well as the fisheries facilities in Barbuda.

Following extensive deliberations, Cabinet agreed that the management of all fisheries complexes should be placed under the responsibility of Antigua Fisheries Limited. The decision is intended to ensure a more coordinated and professional approach to the administration, maintenance, and development of these important facilities.

Cabinet noted that Antigua Fisheries Limited possesses the experience and institutional capacity necessary to oversee the operations of the fisheries complexes and to implement measures that will improve service delivery to fishers, vendors, and other stakeholders within the fishing industry.

As part of the new governance arrangement, Cabinet approved the establishment of a new Board of Directors to provide oversight and strategic direction for Antigua Fisheries Limited. The Board will be chaired by Mr. Hassett Julian and will comprise Ms. Rakosha James, Ms. Carlene Pryce, Mr. Franklin James, Mr. Lyndon Greene, and Ms. Ziah Fritz.

The Cabinet expressed confidence that the new management structure will contribute significantly to the modernization and sustainable development of the fisheries sector, while ensuring that the fisheries complexes remain well-maintained, financially viable, and responsive to the needs of the fishing communities in Antigua and Barbuda.

The Government remains committed to supporting the growth of the fisheries industry as an important contributor to food security, employment, and economic development throughout the nation.

3.     The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has approved a comprehensive plan for the redevelopment and enhancement of the Fort James Beach area, following a review of a long-standing proposal submitted by Royal Caribbean for the development of the site into a themed attraction.

After extensive discussions, Cabinet concluded that the Government of Antigua and Barbuda, working in close collaboration with local stakeholders, will undertake the development of the Fort James Beach area in a manner that preserves its historical significance, enhances its natural beauty, and maximizes economic opportunities for Antiguans and Barbudans.

Cabinet noted that Fort James remains one of the country’s most important historical and cultural assets and possesses significant untapped potential as a tourism and recreational destination. The approved development concept seeks to transform the area into a vibrant heritage and leisure attraction while ensuring broad participation by local entrepreneurs and community stakeholders.

The project will include the installation of groynes and beach replenishment works to protect and enhance the shoreline. Existing commercial activity within the area will be better organized through the development of designated shop spaces and facilities for local vendors and artisans.

Cabinet also endorsed plans for the reclamation and development of approximately three acres of land to create an expanded recreational and entertainment district. The area is expected to feature an amphitheatre and event space capable of hosting cultural performances, community events, and tourism-related activities. Significant green spaces and landscaped park areas will also be incorporated into the design to provide recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike.

The redevelopment initiative is intended to increase visitor traffic to Fort James and create a more attractive environment for tourists while generating sustainable economic opportunities for local businesses and entrepreneurs.

Cabinet further approved the continuation of restoration works at the historic Fort James site, including a second phase of preservation and rehabilitation efforts aimed at safeguarding the country’s rich heritage for future generations.

The Government will engage residents, vendors, business operators, heritage advocates, and other stakeholders in the planning and implementation phases of the project to ensure that the redevelopment reflects the aspirations of the people of Antigua and Barbuda.

Cabinet is confident that the transformation of the Fort James Beach area will create a premier heritage, recreational, and tourism destination that celebrates the nation’s history while contributing to economic growth, job creation, and community development. 

4.     The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has endorsed the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology’s continued efforts to strengthen and expand the delivery of early childhood education throughout the country.

During this week’s Cabinet meeting, the Honourable Minister for Education, Science and Technology informed Cabinet that the Government will assume responsibility for the Sir Luther Wynter Preschool, a longstanding institution that has played a significant role in the development of early childhood education in Antigua and Barbuda.

Founded more than fifty years ago by the late Dame Edris Bird, the Sir Luther Wynter Preschool is located on Queen Elizabeth Highway and currently operates as an affiliated Child Development Centre associated with the UWI Global Campus. The institution has earned recognition as a UNESCO-designated model school and serves as a teaching-practice facility for students pursuing studies in early childhood development.

Cabinet welcomed the transition of the preschool into the Government’s expanding network of early childhood education facilities, noting the institution’s distinguished history and its contribution to the nation’s educational development. Cabinet expressed confidence that the move will preserve the school’s legacy while enhancing access to quality early childhood education for future generations.

The Minister further advised Cabinet that the Government intends to expand preschool education services by establishing additional early childhood centres in the Judges Hill/New Winthorpes and Jennings communities. These initiatives form part of the Government’s broader commitment to ensuring that young children across Antigua and Barbuda have access to safe, nurturing and high-quality learning environments during their formative years.

Cabinet fully supports the Ministry’s vision for the continued growth of early childhood education and recognizes the critical role that quality preschool education plays in laying the foundation for lifelong learning, social development and academic success.

The Government of Antigua and Barbuda remains committed to investing in the nation’s youngest citizens and ensuring that every child is afforded the opportunity to begin their educational journey on a strong footing.

5.     The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has approved the execution of an agreement between the Ministry for Health, Wellness, the Environment and Public Service Affairs and Atlantic Ship Breakers Antigua Limited for the removal, processing, and export of scrap metal from Antigua and Barbuda, particularly the Cooks Landfill.

The agreement forms part of the Government’s ongoing efforts to improve environmental conditions, enhance public safety, and restore lands occupied by accumulated scrap metal and derelict materials. Cabinet was advised that the arrangement will facilitate the efficient clearing and rehabilitation of the site at no direct cost to the Government.

Under the terms of the agreement, Atlantic Ship Breakers Antigua Limited will be responsible for mobilizing all equipment, personnel, and resources necessary to undertake the project. The company will carry out the removal, processing, compacting, and loading of all identified scrap metal, maintain certified weighing and record-keeping systems, and arrange for the transportation and export of the materials in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.

The contractor will also be required to ensure that the project site is cleared, cleaned, and restored to the satisfaction of the Ministry upon completion of the works. All activities will be conducted in compliance with Antigua and Barbuda’s environmental,  occupational health and safety, and other statutory requirements.

Cabinet noted that the agreement has been structured on a no-cost basis to the Government. The contractor’s compensation will be derived solely from the commercial value of the scrap metal recovered and exported from the site. The company will bear all costs associated with the project, including processing, transportation, export permits, trade licences, environmental clearances, and other regulatory requirements.

The project is expected to be completed within twelve months from the commencement date, subject to any approved extensions necessitated by force majeure events or other circumstances beyond the contractor’s  reasonable control. Upon substantial completion, the Ministry will conduct an inspection to verify that all contractual obligations have been fulfilled before issuing a Certificate of Completion.

Cabinet was informed that the removal of the scrap metal will yield several important benefits, including the elimination of environmental hazards, the improvement of public health and safety conditions, the recovery of valuable land resources, and the enhancement of the surrounding area.

In approving the agreement, Cabinet emphasized the importance of responsible environmental stewardship and the proper disposal and recycling of scrap materials. The initiative aligns with the  Government’s broader commitment to sustainable development, environmental protection, and the maintenance of safe and orderly public spaces.

The Government welcomes the partnership with Atlantic Ship Breakers Antigua Limited and looks forward to the successful completion of the project, which will contribute to a cleaner, safer, and more environmentally sustainable Antigua and Barbuda.

6.     The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has approved a recommendation from the Attorney General and Minister for Legal Affairs, the Honourable Sir Steadroy Benjamin, for the establishment of a dedicated Night Court to hear and determine traffic-related matters.

The decision follows extensive discussions by Cabinet on the growing number of traffic offences and road traffic incidents being reported throughout the country, as well as the increasing backlog of traffic cases before the courts.

Cabinet expressed concern over the frequency of traffic accidents and violations, noting the significant impact that reckless and unlawful driving continues to have on public safety, property, and the efficient administration of justice. Members agreed that a more focused and timely approach is required to address traffic-related offences and to ensure that matters are adjudicated without unnecessary delay.

The Night Court will be specifically dedicated to the hearing of traffic cases and is expected to provide an efficient mechanism for reducing the existing backlog while improving the speed with which new matters are brought before the courts. The initiative will also strengthen the enforcement of traffic laws by ensuring that offenders  are held accountable in a timely manner.

Cabinet was advised that the establishment of the Night Court will ease pressure on the regular court system, allowing for the more effective management of judicial resources and enabling the courts to devote additional attention to other criminal and civil matters.

The Government views the initiative as an important component of its broader efforts to improve road safety, strengthen compliance with traffic laws, and promote greater responsibility among motorists and other road users. Cabinet emphasized that the protection of lives and property remains a national priority and that all stakeholders must play their part in fostering a culture of safe and lawful driving.

Relevant agencies, including the judiciary, law enforcement authorities, and the Ministry of Legal Affairs, will work collaboratively to implement the necessary arrangements for the operationalization of the Night Court.

Cabinet is confident that the measure will contribute significantly to reducing delays in the justice system, improving public confidence in the administration of justice, and enhancing road safety throughout Antigua and Barbuda.

7.     The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has approved the appointment of members to several statutory and advisory boards under the Ministry of Health, Wellness, Environment and Civil Service Affairs, continuing the Government’s programme of institutional strengthening following the April 30 General Elections and the decisive mandate granted to the administration of Prime Minister Gaston Browne.

Minister for Health, Wellness, Environment and Civil Service Affairs, Hon. Michael Joseph, presented recommendations for appointments to a number of boards that play critical roles in health sector governance, environmental management, regulatory oversight and public service administration. Cabinet endorsed the recommendations,  recognizing the importance of ensuring that these bodies are equipped with qualified and experienced individuals capable of advancing national development priorities.

The appointments form part of the Government’s ongoing effort to strengthen governance, accountability and service delivery across the public sector.

Among the boards approved by Cabinet are:

Antigua and Barbuda Nursing Council

•⁠  ⁠Margaret Smith

•⁠  ⁠Juliette Michael

•⁠  ⁠Debbie Jeffers-Joseph

•⁠  ⁠Dr. Adrian Rhudd

•⁠  ⁠Dr. Jodi-Ann Morgon-Haughton

•⁠  ⁠Latoya Mussington

•⁠  ⁠Alicia Frederick

The Council is responsible for maintaining professional standards within the nursing profession and ensuring the delivery of quality nursing care throughout Antigua and Barbuda.

National Solid Waste Management Authority Board

•⁠  ⁠Chairman – Danley Phillip

•⁠  ⁠DCA Town and Country Planner 

•⁠  ⁠CBH Chief (Ex-Officio) 

•⁠  ⁠Ministry of Finance Representative – Peter Abraham Jr.

•⁠  ⁠Board Member – Shaka Francis

•⁠  ⁠Board Member – Garfield Christopher

•⁠  ⁠Board Member – Sequoyah Survia

•⁠  ⁠Board Secretary – Bonnie Prince

The Board provides he Board provides strategic oversight of the nation’s waste management systems and environmental sustainability initiatives.

Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre Board

•⁠  ⁠Executive Chairman – Dr. Philmore Benjamin

•⁠  ⁠Deputy Chairman – Dr. Edward Mansoor

•⁠  ⁠Board Secretary – Martin Camacho

•⁠  ⁠Board Member – Dr. Karen Josiah

•⁠  ⁠Board Member – Randy Agrippa

•⁠  ⁠Board Member – Casmin Greene

•⁠  ⁠Board Member – Akeem Edwards

•⁠  ⁠Board Member – Keva Dean

•⁠  ⁠Medical Benefits Scheme Representative (Ex-Officio) – Kevin Silston 

•⁠  ⁠Chief Medical Officer (Ex-Officio) – Dr. Kamaria DeCastro

Cabinet noted that the Board will continue to guide the strategic direction of the country’s principal referral hospital and support ongoing efforts to improve healthcare delivery and patient outcomes.

Stem Cell Research and Therapy Board

•⁠  ⁠Chief Medical Officer – Dr. Kamaria DeCastro

•⁠  ⁠Director of Analytical Services – Dr. Linroy Christian

•⁠  ⁠Nominee from the Attorney General’s Office 

•⁠  ⁠Algernon Roberts

•⁠  ⁠Dr. Hanybal Yazigi

•⁠  ⁠Vernon Solomon

•⁠  ⁠Dr. Sekeena Goodwin

•⁠  ⁠Board Secretary – Keri-Anne Bramble-Browne

The Board will provide oversight and guidance for Antigua and Barbuda’s developing stem cell research and therapy framework, ensuring that innovation in medical science is pursued within appropriate ethical and regulatory standards.

Cabinet expressed confidence that the newly appointed members possess the expertise, professionalism and commitment necessary to advance the work of their respective institutions. The appointments reflect the Government’s determination to strengthen public institutions, improve service delivery and ensure effective governance across critical sectors that impact the lives and well-being of the people of Antigua and Barbuda.

8.     The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda welcomed a presentation from the Executive Director of the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA) during her visit to Antigua and Barbuda. The Executive Director was in the country to participate in activities surrounding the commissioning of newly upgraded hurricane shelters and to engage Government officials on regional disaster preparedness and resilience initiatives.

During her presentation, the Executive Director highlighted the evolving disaster risk environment facing the Caribbean, noting that climate-related hazards are becoming more frequent, more severe, and increasingly costly. She emphasized that regional disaster management systems are being called upon not only to coordinate emergency response efforts but also to support resilience-building and recovery initiatives throughout the region.

Cabinet was informed that CDEMA continues to play a critical role in coordinating regional disaster response and providing technical assistance, training, and operational support to participating states. However, the organization faces growing financial and operational pressures as traditional sources of international development assistance become less predictable amid changing global priorities.

The Executive Director outlined the organization’s efforts to strengthen its capacity through institutional restructuring, enhanced technical expertise, and the establishment of more sustainable financing mechanisms. Particular emphasis was placed on the need for participating states to increase their investment in regional disaster preparedness systems to ensure that critical response resources are readily available when disasters strike.

Cabinet noted that Antigua and Barbuda has benefited significantly from its longstanding partnership with CDEMA. Between 2019 and 2025, the country received substantial technical and financial support through the regional mechanism, including disaster response assistance, specialized training for emergency personnel, and access to an expanding network of regional and international partners.

The Executive Director also underscored Antigua and Barbuda’s strategic role within the regional disaster management architecture as a designated Sub-Regional Focal Point, a responsibility the country has undertaken for several decades. Cabinet acknowledged that this leadership role enhances both national and regional preparedness and contributes to the collective security of Caribbean states.

Following the presentation, Cabinet reaffirmed its strong support for the work of CDEMA and recognized the indispensable role the organization plays in safeguarding lives, property, and economic activity throughout the Caribbean. Cabinet agreed that strengthening disaster preparedness and response systems remains a national priority, particularly as the region faces increasingly complex climate and environmental challenges.

Cabinet further expressed its support for efforts aimed at ensuring the long-term sustainability of CDEMA and welcomed ongoing discussions regarding enhanced regional cooperation, capacity building, and financing arrangements that will strengthen disaster resilience across the Caribbean.

The Government of Antigua and Barbuda remains committed to working closely with CDEMA and regional partners to build safer, more resilient communities and to ensure that the country remains prepared to respond effectively to future emergencies and natural disasters.

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