Prime Minister Gaston Browne has called on citizens to take greater responsibility for keeping Antigua and Barbuda clean, warning that littering and derelict buildings threaten the country’s tourism appeal.
Speaking at the opening of a new cruise terminal on Thursday, Mr Browne said environmental standards were as important as government investment in infrastructure.
He criticised what he described as widespread indiscriminate dumping and neglected properties, while noting that the government was demolishing derelict homes and working to beautify public spaces.
Mr Browne said public investment in tourism was intended to improve living standards, but stressed that citizens must play their part by maintaining a clean environment and providing high-quality service.
“We’re investing heavily in our people, but our people now have to reciprocate,” he said.
The appeal comes as Antigua and Barbuda positions itself as a leading Caribbean cruise destination, with the new terminal expected to bring a sharp rise in visitor numbers.
Tourism Minister Charles Fernandez said the port area had undergone a major transformation since the government took office 11 years ago, replacing what he described as an embarrassing waterfront of sunken vessels.
Further cruise-related developments are planned for Barbuda, Barnacle Point and other sites over the next three to five years, with officials warning that environmental standards must keep pace with the upgraded facilities.
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We must all help keep Antigua and Barbuda, the United Islands, clean. For ourself and our visitors.
We must all help crime victim advocacy and research endeavors that is beneficial for locals and US visitors, the same kind ABLP PM Gaston Browne refuse to assist because it will provide funds to Antiguans and Barbudans and Americans who are victims of abuse or crimes. In some cases, up to $120,000.00usd. Paid for by the US crime victim funds, administered by each and every US state.
We must all help the tourism sector, but he will onmy help if he, his son and family is making money from it.
I don’t think he should act like he cares about Antigua and Barbuda tourism industry or the locals and their guest, as he doesn’t care.
We should be encouraged to keep the country clean as a matter of national pride and not just for the sake of tourism. Teach this in schools and encourage it non-stop through media. Punish those who litter, without exception.
I agree it is important to have a healthy clean environment and all residents should take some responsibility. But it would also help the image of Antigua if roads were properly maintained. Even newly laid roads like the one outside Woods already has potholes and cracks in the tarmac. Pavements also need to be improved in St John’s. Many cruise travellers can be seen tiptoeing around town frightened of tripping down a steep kerb or wondering how to navigate narrow broken pavements. And finally Tourists usually come from countries where they cherish and care for dogs. Your image is also tarnished by the way some local people mistreat dogs.
I am saying this as a regular visitor to your beautiful island. But you still have a long way to go .