Parliament Building, Queen Elizabeth Highway, St. John’s, Antigua and Barbuda
The Antigua and Barbuda government is taking decisive steps to regulate Artificial Intelligence (AI), ensuring ethical and secure use while safeguarding against its misuse. Governor-General Sir Rodney Williams announced these plans during the 2025 Speech from the Throne, emphasizing the transformative potential of AI and the importance of a proactive legislative framework.
“As we witness the rapid revolution in information technology, particularly Artificial Intelligence, my government is committed to modernizing our laws to ensure its benefits are harnessed while minimizing potential harm,” said Sir Rodney. He highlighted that the Ministry of Legal Affairs, in collaboration with CARICOM counterparts, is working to draft regulations that will protect businesses, institutions, and government bodies across the region.
The Governor-General outlined several updates to enhance public safety, including renaming His Majesty’s Prison as the Antigua and Barbuda Correctional Facility and rebranding the Fire Brigade as the Antigua and Barbuda Fire and Rescue Services. “These changes reflect my government’s commitment to modernizing law enforcement and fostering a service-oriented approach,” he stated.
Acknowledging the recent rise in youth violence, Sir Rodney commended the government’s efforts to engage with youth gangs. “Through meaningful dialogue and conflict resolution, we have seen a remarkable decrease in youth crime and violence. This demonstrates the power of communication and my government’s unwavering commitment to community safety,” he remarked.
The government has also bolstered law enforcement capabilities, with 69 new officers joining the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda and the introduction of advanced tools like crime-fighting drones. “These initiatives, supported by anti-gang legislation, provide our officers with the tools they need to combat crime effectively,” Sir Rodney said, also praising the support of agencies such as the Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force and the ONDCP.
The government’s focus extends to rehabilitation and mental health services. Sir Rodney announced the reopening of the Boys Training School, which will prioritize equipping young offenders with skills for societal reintegration. “We are investing in our youth, ensuring they have access to meaningful opportunities to become productive citizens,” he said.
Plans for a new mental health facility at Sea View Farm were also unveiled, replacing the outdated Clarevue Hospital. “This facility, alongside updated mental health legislation, will address the critical link between mental health and violence, ensuring a safer and more caring society,” Sir Rodney affirmed.
Reforms to the Companies Act aim to prevent abuses by shell companies, particularly those shielding assets from bankruptcy or sale. “This reflects my government’s longstanding commitment to protecting workers’ rights and benefits,” said the Governor-General.
Addressing the issue of abandoned properties, Sir Rodney announced forthcoming legislation to allow for their confiscation, demolition, or sale, with associated costs deducted from proceeds. “While addressing these risks, my government remains committed to respecting property rights,” he assured.
“Together, we are forging a path toward a progressive and secure Antigua and Barbuda, ensuring our citizens thrive amid the challenges of a rapidly changing world,” he stated.
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Is that so? That these old geriatric colonial men stifling the youth growth for their enrichment could pass law for AI, those ministers probably think it’s just an alphabet and acronym, have no idea, but it makes them.dound cool wordsmithing.