CABINET NOTES: Wednesday 18th March 2026

REPORT FROM THE CABINET OF ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA
MEETING OF WEDNESDAY 18^th MARCH 2026

The prayers before Cabinet were led by a pastor from the Methodist Church who based his meditation on 1 Timothy 2:1–4.  We are reminded of the power and responsibility of prayer—especially for those in authority. The Apostle Paul urges that petitions, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgiving be made for all people, and particularly for leaders, so that society may be guided toward peace, order, and godliness.

This passage calls us to look beyond personal concerns and to lift up those entrusted with decision-making. Leadership carries great responsibility, and wisdom is essential. When we pray for leaders, we are asking God to guide their hearts, sharpen their judgment, and align their actions with justice, compassion, and truth.

The scripture also reminds us of God’s desire—that all people be saved and come to the knowledge of truth. This places a higher purpose on leadership: that decisions made not only benefit society materially but also uphold dignity, fairness, and the well-being of all.

In this light, prayer becomes an act of service—covering leaders with divine guidance so that their work may contribute to peace and progress for all.

The Pastor prayed that God Grants members wisdom, understanding, and discernment in all their decisions. He ask that God Guide their hearts to act with integrity, fairness, and compassion. 

1.     The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has approved a series of measures aimed at easing the cost of living and strengthening the economic well-being of citizens, in keeping with commitments made during the December 2025 Budget presentation.

These decisions come against the backdrop of ongoing global geopolitical developments—including rising fuel and food prices—which continue to impact small island developing states. The Government, led by Prime Minister Gaston Browne, has taken proactive steps to cushion the effects of these external pressures on households and workers.

ABST Reduction on Essential Items

Cabinet confirmed that the previously announced reduction of the Antigua and Barbuda Sales Tax (ABST) to 0% on food items and school supplies will be implemented over April 10–11, 2026, the weekend preceding the reopening of schools following the Easter break. This measure is intended to provide direct financial relief to families preparing for the new school term.

Increase in Minimum Wage

Following recent consultations with the National Minimum Wage Committee, Cabinet has agreed to increase the national minimum wage from $9.00 to $11.50 per hour, effective April 1, 2026.

Cabinet further noted that this adjustment forms part of a phased approach toward the previously announced target of $13.00 per hour, with additional increases to be implemented over time. The measure is designed to improve income security for low-wage earners and ensure a fairer distribution of economic gains.

Interim Salary Increase for Public Servants

In keeping with the Government’s commitment to public sector workers, Cabinet also approved an interim salary increase of 5% for all public servants, effective end of March 2026. This adjustment is intended to provide immediate relief while negotiations on a broader compensation package continue.

Cabinet emphasized that this increase does not indicate the final total of the increase and is subject to ongoing negotiations, with the expectation that a comprehensive agreement will be reached in due course.

Cabinet reiterated that these measures reflect the Government’s continued commitment to protecting citizens from global economic shocks while advancing national development goals. Antigua and Barbuda’s economic policies in recent years have focused on resilience, social protection, and sustainable growth, particularly in response to external challenges affecting small economies.

The Government will continue to monitor global developments and stands ready to implement additional measures where necessary to safeguard the well-being of the people of Antigua and Barbuda.

2.The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has agreed for work to commence this coming week on the rehabilitation of All Saints Road by the Ministry of Works, as part of the Government’s ongoing programme to improve the nation’s road infrastructure.

Cabinet was informed that the Ministry of Works has already begun mobilizing the necessary heavy-duty equipment, materials, and personnel to ensure that the project is executed efficiently and to the highest possible standards. The scope of works is expected to significantly enhance the quality and durability of the roadway, improving safety and ease of travel for motorists and pedestrians alike.

The rehabilitation of All Saints Road forms part of the Government’s broader infrastructure development strategy, which has prioritized the upgrade of critical road networks across the country. In recent years, the Government has undertaken several major road improvement projects aimed at addressing long-standing issues related to road conditions and drainage.

Cabinet also noted that the Government will continue its engagement with Canadian-based firm AmDex, as discussions advance on other road rehabilitation projects across the state. These negotiations are expected to support a wider programme of roadworks designed to modernize transportation infrastructure and strengthen national development.

The Government of Antigua and Barbuda remains committed to delivering high-quality infrastructure that meets the needs of its citizens and supports economic growth. Residents and road users are encouraged to exercise caution and cooperate with traffic management measures that may be implemented during the construction period.

Further updates on the progress of the All Saints Road project will be provided in due course.

3.     The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has emphasized its policy aimed at empowering citizens who have been residing on Crown lands for an extended period.

Under this initiative, individuals who have occupied Crown lands for more than ten (10) years will be offered the opportunity to purchase up to one-quarter (¼) acre of land at a concessional rate of EC$1.00 per square foot.

Cabinet noted that this policy forms part of the Government’s broader efforts to promote homeownership, security of tenure, and economic empowerment among citizens. By providing long-term occupants with the ability to formalize ownership of the lands they have developed and maintained, the Government aims to improve living conditions and create greater opportunities for wealth creation.

The policy also seeks to regularize informal settlements in a structured manner, ensuring that residents can gain legal title while enabling the State to implement proper planning, infrastructure development, and community enhancement initiatives.

Prime Minister Gaston Browne and Cabinet emphasized that the initiative reflects the administration’s continued commitment to uplifting citizens and expanding access to land ownership, particularly for those who have demonstrated long-standing ties to the lands they occupy.

The Government of Antigua and Barbuda remains committed to policies that advance social equity, economic inclusion, and sustainable national development.

4.     The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has announced that a national clean-up campaign will be undertaken across the country within the next two weeks, as part of the Government’s ongoing commitment to environmental management and national beautification.

This initiative builds on the policies and actions of the administration led by Prime Minister Gaston Browne, which has consistently prioritized the cleanliness, safety, and aesthetic appeal of communities throughout Antigua and Barbuda.

Cabinet noted that recent efforts led by the National Solid Waste Management Authority and partner agencies have already intensified clean-up and beautification activities across several communities, including the removal of bulky waste, clearing of overgrown areas, and cleaning of drains and public spaces. 

In addition, community-based initiatives—such as recent bulk waste clean-up campaigns—have demonstrated the importance of citizen participation in maintaining a clean and healthy environment, while promoting national pride and collective responsibility. 

The upcoming national clean-up will take a coordinated, multi-agency approach, involving government ministries, statutory bodies, community groups, and volunteers. Activities will include:

• Removal of litter and derelict items
• Clearing of bushes and overgrown vegetation
• Cleaning of drains and waterways
• Enhancement of public spaces and road vergesCabinet emphasized that the initiative is not only about beautification but also about public health, environmental protection, tourism preservation, and community safety, noting that unclean surroundings can contribute to flooding, pest infestations, and other hazards.Citizens, businesses, and community organizations are being encouraged to actively participate in the national effort by properly disposing of waste, maintaining their surroundings, and supporting scheduled clean-up activities in their respective areas.The Government reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that Antigua and Barbuda remains a clean, safe, and welcoming destination, while fostering a culture of environmental responsibility among all residents.Further details regarding the schedule and areas of focus for the national clean-up campaign will be announced in the coming days.  

5.     The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has approved the establishment of The National Art Gallery of Antigua and Barbuda, to be housed in the historic former Catholic School building adjacent to Government House in St. John’s.

The decision, brought forward by Prime Minister, the Honourable Gaston Browne, marks a significant milestone in the advancement of the nation’s cultural and creative industries.

Cabinet also approved the naming of the facility as the Christopher Holder National Art Gallery of Antigua and Barbuda, in recognition of the substantial philanthropic contribution made through the Maria Holder Memorial Trust toward the restoration and rehabilitation of the building.

The project will be undertaken through a strategic partnership involving the Halo Foundation Inc. and the Maria Holder Memorial Trust. Under this arrangement, the full restoration of the historic structure will be financed through philanthropic support, ensuring its preservation and adaptive reuse as a national cultural institution.

Once completed, the Gallery will serve as a permanent space dedicated to the exhibition and celebration of Antiguan and Barbudan visual arts, while also fostering artistic development and education. The initiative responds to longstanding calls from local artists and cultural stakeholders for a dedicated national venue to showcase the country’s artistic expression.

Restoration works are expected to commence shortly, with completion anticipated by October 2026. Upon completion, the Gallery will be curated in collaboration with local and international partners and will support training opportunities for members of the creative community.

The National Art Gallery is expected to:

            •           Provide a dedicated national institution for the visual arts

            •           Strengthen cultural identity and national pride

            •           Encourage youth participation in the arts and creative industries

            •           Support cultural tourism and enhance the cultural landscape of St. John’s

            •           Expand engagement with regional and international arts institutions

In addition, the Gallery will complement ongoing cultural infrastructure projects, including the planned development of a National Performing Arts Centre, contributing to the creation of a vibrant cultural district within the capital.

Cabinet noted that this initiative represents a practical example of how partnerships between Government and philanthropic organizations can drive national development, preserve heritage, and create new opportunities within the creative economy.

The Government of Antigua and Barbuda remains committed to investing in the cultural sector as a key pillar of national development and identity.

6.     The Government of Antigua and Barbuda, through the Ministry of Health, Wellness and the Environment, has announced a national recruitment drive for Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) to strengthen emergency response capacity across the country.

This initiative comes amid continued investments in the nation’s healthcare infrastructure, including the opening of a new pharmacy at the Glanvilles Poly Clinic and planned upgrades to other clinics. These developments are expected to significantly enhance access to care, particularly in rural and underserved communities.

The recruitment drive is also informed by a steady increase in emergency calls managed by the Antigua and Barbuda Emergency Medical Services (ABEMS). Data indicates that call volumes rose from 14,318 in 2022 to 16,311 in 2024, with sustained high demand continuing into 2025. Additionally, the ABEMS Paratransit Unit assisted over 1,100 patients in 2025 alone, providing essential transportation for dialysis and physical therapy services.

The Ministry has received Cabinet approval for the creation of six (6) new EMT positions to support expanding operations, including the establishment of a 24-hour ABEMS outpost at the Glanvilles Poly Clinic. These additional personnel will also help meet the growing demand for emergency coverage at national events, sporting activities, and increased requests for Basic Life Support (BLS) training across both public and private sectors.

Minister for Health, Wellness and the Environment, Sir Molwyn Joseph, emphasized that this recruitment effort is part of a broader strategy to modernize emergency medical services and ensure timely, high-quality care for all.

“The expansion of our healthcare facilities must be matched by strengthening our human resources. This recruitment drive ensures that we are prepared to meet the growing needs of our population while maintaining the highest standards of emergency care,” the Minister stated.

The Ministry encourages qualified individuals to apply and be part of a critical national effort to enhance emergency response and save lives.

7.     The Government of Antigua and Barbuda is pleased to announce that Mr. Zachary Phillips, Crown Counsel within the Ministry of Legal Affairs, has been invited to serve as Legal Coordinator for 2026 for the Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS), a leading negotiating bloc representing the interests of small island and low-lying coastal states in global climate discussions.

AOSIS is an intergovernmental organization established to amplify the voices of Small Island Developing States (SIDS), which are among the most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, including rising sea levels and extreme weather events.

In this important role, Mr. Phillips will provide legal and strategic guidance to AOSIS leadership and negotiators, supporting the articulation of unified legal positions and ensuring consistency across negotiations. His responsibilities will include contributing to the development of legal frameworks, advising on negotiation strategies, and assisting in the drafting and review of legal texts and proposals.

Mr. Phillips is also expected to participate in key international climate meetings, including the Subsidiary Body sessions (SB64) in Bonn and the 31st Conference of the Parties (COP31), where AOSIS continues to advocate for stronger global climate action and equitable outcomes for vulnerable states.

AOSIS has long played a pivotal role in shaping international climate policy, successfully advancing the concerns of small island nations within the United Nations system and global negotiations. 

The Government notes that this invitation reflects both the high regard for Antigua and Barbuda’s legal expertise and the country’s continued leadership in international climate diplomacy. It also underscores the critical role that Caribbean professionals play in advancing the interests of small island states on the global stage.

The Government of Antigua and Barbuda extends its full support to Mr. Phillips and commends AOSIS for its continued advocacy on behalf of vulnerable nations worldwide.

8.     The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda  extended a warm welcome to Randy Baltimore, the newly elected representative for the St. Philip’s North Constituency, who was invited to Cabinet for discussions on the continued development of the constituency.

Mr. Baltimore, who secured an overwhelming victory in Monday’s primary, was applauded by Cabinet members for earning the strong confidence and support of the people of St. Philip’s North. Cabinet noted that his invitation marked the beginning of a collaborative approach to advancing the social and economic priorities of the constituency.

During the meeting, discussions focused on key areas of development, including housing, infrastructure, and community enhancement initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life for residents.

Prime Minister Gaston Browne congratulated Mr. Baltimore on his victory and advised that formal announcements regarding his appointments will be made within the coming week. In the interim, Mr. Baltimore has been appointed Chairman of the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CHAPA) and continues to serve as Chairman of the Antigua and Barbuda Transport Board.

Cabinet expressed confidence in Mr. Baltimore’s ability to contribute meaningfully to national development and to effectively represent the interests of his constituents.

Cabinet also took the opportunity to commend Antigua and Barbuda’s National Debating Team for its outstanding achievement in capturing the Leeward Islands Debating Championship.

Members of Cabinet praised the team for their excellence in public speaking, critical thinking, and advocacy, noting that their success reflects the high caliber of the nation’s youth. The achievement was described as a source of national pride and a testament to the dedication of the students, coaches, and supporting institutions.

Cabinet extended best wishes to the team for continued success and reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to supporting youth development, education, and extracurricular excellence across Antigua and Barbuda.

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