{"id":242130,"date":"2025-07-03T07:30:39","date_gmt":"2025-07-03T11:30:39","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/antiguanewsroom.com\/?p=242130"},"modified":"2025-07-03T09:43:22","modified_gmt":"2025-07-03T13:43:22","slug":"cabinet-notes-wednesday-july-2nd-2025","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/antiguanewsroom.com\/cabinet-notes-wednesday-july-2nd-2025\/","title":{"rendered":"CABINET NOTES: Wednesday July 2nd 2025"},"content":{"rendered":"
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REPORT FROM THE CABINET OF ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA
MEETING OF WEDNESDAY 2ND<\/sup>\u00a0JULY 2025<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Wednesday\u2019s Cabinet Meeting, chaired by Acting Prime Minister the Hon. Sir Steadroy Benjamin.  Prime Minister Browne is out of state attending the <\/strong>Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development (FFD4) in Sevilla, Spain.  The Prayers before Cabinet was led by a Pentecostal Pastor who read from 11 Thessalonians 3:16 which spoke of inner peace while doing the work of God.  The Cabinet was reminded that they were appointed by God for a particular task and therefore they should be at peace with themselves, each other, within the communities and the nation as they execute their duties.<\/strong><\/p>

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  1. The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda received an update from the Honourable <\/strong>Daryll Matthew<\/strong>, Minister responsible for Carnival, who confirmed that preparations are well advanced for what is anticipated to be one of the most vibrant and memorable <\/strong>Carnival celebrations in recent history<\/strong>.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n

    Scheduled to take place from July 25 to August 5<\/strong>, this year\u2019s festival\u2014under the electrifying theme \u201cItz A Vibe\u201d<\/strong>\u2014is already generating heightened excitement and engagement both locally and internationally.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    With just under three weeks to go before the official start, the Minister reported that participation levels are on the rise, as evidenced by the ongoing Soca and Calypso Quarterfinals. Final refurbishments and upgrades to Carnival City at the Antigua Recreation Grounds are nearing completion, ensuring the venue will be ready to host thousands of revellers and spectators.<\/p>

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    Tickets are now on sale for most major events, and hotels across the island are reporting occupancy rates above 90% for the carnival period\u2014a clear indication of strong regional and international interest.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    To meet the growing demand, Caribbean Airlines has added two special flights from Trinidad and Tobago, while American Airlines is operating three daily flights from Miami, USA. LIAT is also reporting increased bookings from neighbouring islands, highlighting Antigua\u2019s position as a key cultural destination in the region.<\/p>

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    Minister Matthew also noted that the Festivals Commission continues to play a vital role in supporting the Watch Night Celebrations, commemorating the Emancipation from Slavery\u2014the historical foundation upon which Carnival is built.<\/p>

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    The Minister concluded by assuring the Cabinet and the public that all signs point to an exciting, safe, and culturally rich Carnival 2025, promising unforgettable experiences for residents and visitors alike.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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    1. In a continued effort to promote <\/strong>healthy lifestyles, positive youth development, and community engagement<\/strong>, the Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has announced its support for a series of <\/strong>community sports programmes and summer camps<\/strong> to be held across the country during the current school holidays.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n

      Recognizing the long summer break as a critical time to engage the nation\u2019s youth, the Government is committed to supporting structured, enriching, and enjoyable activities that not only entertain but also educate and inspire. These programmes are designed to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n