The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has issued a fresh appeal for caution on the nation’s roads following the death of National Solid Waste Management Authority worker O’Keen Lightfoot and another recent incident involving a sanitation employee being struck while on duty.
During Thursday’s post-Cabinet briefing, Director General of Communications Maurice Merchant said ministers expressed “grave concern” over what they described as increasing reckless and irresponsible driving across the country.
Cabinet extended condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of Lightfoot, who died in a traffic accident while carrying out his duties as an NSWMA employee.
“Cabinet members observed the incident with deep sadness and extended sympathies to all members of the National Solid Waste Management Authority family during this difficult period,” Merchant said.
Ministers also recognized the work carried out daily by sanitation and waste management employees, describing them as essential workers who help maintain the health and cleanliness of communities throughout Antigua and Barbuda.
Merchant noted that Lightfoot’s death came shortly before another sanitation worker was reportedly struck by a vehicle while working along a roadway on Wednesday morning.
“The cabinet is therefore appealing to all motorists to exercise greater caution, patience, and responsibility while driving, particularly in areas where public workers are actively engaged in duties along the roadways,” he said.
Cabinet said road safety must be treated as a shared national responsibility and urged drivers to obey traffic laws, reduce speeding and remain alert near roadside workers and pedestrians.
The government also said it intends to continue discussions with relevant authorities and agencies on additional measures aimed at improving road safety and protecting vulnerable workers operating near roadways.
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