PM Appeals for Full Census Participation, Including Undocumented Residents

Browne urges all residents to be counted on June 25, says data is confidential and vital for planning

Prime Minister Gaston Browne is calling on every resident in Antigua and Barbuda, regardless of legal status, to take part in the national census starting June 25. He stressed that an accurate count is critical for national planning, resource allocation, and determining eligibility for international assistance.

Speaking on Pointe FM on Saturday, Browne said:

“Provided you live on this island, you ought to make yourself available to be counted. It’s your civic duty so to do.”

Browne specifically addressed concerns from undocumented individuals who may fear participating in the exercise.

“There is no risk of someone who is without status, who is participating in the census, being deported,” he said. “There is no evidence that the Labour Party has ever deported anyone for being here illegally.”

He emphasized that all census data will be protected under law.

“The information by law must be kept confidential… it is illegal [to share it].”

According to Browne, undercounting even by 10,000 people could significantly distort metrics like per capita income, which are used by international organizations to assess development assistance eligibility.

“If we get it wrong, even by 10,000, it can skew the figure,” he said.

He also highlighted the implications for public services, including education, healthcare, and housing.

“That may mean 10 beds less than what is required… or placing a childcare facility in the wrong community.”

The Prime Minister urged all residents to provide information not only for themselves but for household members who may be absent during the enumeration. He added that the exercise should remain apolitical and called for the support of all political parties and members of civil society.

The census will officially begin on June 25 and is expected to continue for several months. Preliminary data may be available by November.

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