PM Defends Import of Dominican Republic Construction Workers For Labour Shortage

PM Defends Import of Dominican Republic Construction Workers Amid Labour Shortage

Prime Minister Gaston Browne has defended his administration’s decision to bring in construction workers from the Dominican Republic, citing a significant shortage of local skilled labour to meet growing public and private sector demand.

The matter was raised in Parliament on Thursday by St John’s Rural West MP Richard Lewis, who questioned why the government was turning to foreign workers, and whether consideration had been given to sourcing labour from within the OECS where building codes and language barriers pose less of a challenge.

In response, Prime Minister Browne dismissed the concern as rhetorical, stating: “If it is that we do not have enough construction workers and that there’s a high demand for construction—both public and private—what are we to do?”

He explained that National Housing was unable to meet the current demand for homebuilding due to a shortage of skilled labour. “We want to make sure that we deliver for the people of Antigua and Barbuda, and accordingly we have arranged to bring in some construction workers from the Dominican Republic.”

Browne acknowledged that the government had explored the option of OECS workers but found similar labour shortages across the region. “They do not have the excess labour at this time,” he said.

The exchange took place during Prime Minister’s Questions, with opposition MPs also querying issues ranging from delays in the road rehabilitation programme to concerns about water infrastructure and oversight mechanisms.

The Prime Minister revealed that a $100 million loan for road upgrades is still being finalized, with documentation expected within two weeks. He said an oversight committee led by the Financial Secretary has already been established to monitor the project and ensure value for money.

When pressed about coordination with water services before roadworks begin, Browne assured the House that there is now “better coordination between APUA and Public Works.”

The session also saw tense exchanges over previous Citizenship by Investment dealings and infrastructure delays, underscoring the contentious political atmosphere as the government navigates economic recovery and development demands.

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