REPORT FROM THE CABINET OF ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA
MEETING OF THURSDAY 22nd JANUARY 2026
The prayers before Cabinet were led by A Pastor from the Salvation Army, whose meditation centred on James 1:5 – “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.”
The verse encourages praying for wisdom when making decisions.
James reminds us that when we don’t know what to do, we are not expected to figure everything out on our own. God does not condemn us for needing help—He invites us to ask. This verse teaches that wisdom is not only knowledge, but the ability to choose what is right, useful, and pleasing to God. When we pray for wisdom, God responds generously, guiding our minds, shaping our hearts, and directing our steps.
The Pastor prayed that God will guide the thoughts of members of the Cabinet, calm their spirits, and help them to make decisions that honour God. He asked that God give them clarity when feeling confused, peace where they feel anxious, and courage to do what is right even when it is difficult.
1. Wednesday’s Cabinet meeting, was chaired by Prime Minister the Hon. Gaston Browne, who welcomed members and opened discussions on the state of the country’s economy and the excellence performance of the jobs market. Following discussions on the issue, Cabinet approved the introduction of an immigration amnesty for eligible non-nationals currently residing in the country.
The amnesty is intended to address current labour shortages across key sectors of the economy while providing an opportunity for individuals who have fallen out of immigration status to regularise their stay.
Cabinet noted that a number of non-nationals have become out of time due primarily to financial constraints, rather than wilful non-compliance. The amnesty will allow affected individuals to bring their status into good standing without penalty, enabling them to live and work legally and contribute fully to national development.
The initiative is also designed to support employers by expanding the available labour pool at a time when Antigua and Barbuda is experiencing increased economic activity and demand for workers.
Further details regarding eligibility criteria, application procedures, date of implantation and the duration of the amnesty will be presented to the Cabinet at its next sitting by Immigration Minister Sir Steadroy Benjamin and his team from the Department of Immigration.
The Cabinet also reaffirms its commitment to fair, humane, and practical immigration policies that balance national interests with social and economic realities.
2. The Cabinet wishes to announce that, as a matter of policy, it has approved a reduction in the Antigua and Barbuda Sales Tax (ABST) to 7% between the second or third quarters of 2026, as part of ongoing efforts to relieve the cost-of-living pressures faced by households and stimulate consumer spending.
The decision follows careful consideration of the effects of international events on the country’s economy and continued feedback from citizens and businesses regarding the rising cost of essential goods and services. Cabinet agreed that temporarily easing indirect tax burdens will help households manage everyday expenses while encouraging increased commercial activity across the local economy.
This temporary reduction in ABST complements other efforts by the Government to balance revenue collection with measures that support the purchasing power of households. Measures such as targeted tax reliefs and initiatives aimed at alleviating inflationary pressures form part of the Government’s broader strategy for promoting economic stability and growth.
Cabinet emphasised that the reduction will be carefully monitored to assess its impact on consumer behaviour and economic activity. Details regarding the implementation of the measure, including specific effective dates and any administrative guidance, will be communicated by the Inland Revenue Department in due course.
The Cabinet says that the Government remains committed to a balanced approach to fiscal policy that supports both the wellbeing of citizens and the long-term sustainability of public finances.
3. The Cabinet has been advised of the significant increase in requests from Antiguans and Barbudans to the National Housing Development and Urban Renewal Company Limited for the construction of homes, reflecting the growing demand for affordable housing across the country.
Since assuming office, the Gaston Browne Administration has overseen the construction of more than 1,000 homes, underscoring the Government’s continued commitment to improving access to housing and strengthening community development. Despite this progress, the level of demand has exceeded the current construction capacity of the National Housing Development and Urban Renewal Company Limited
In response, Cabinet has agreed to a recommendation by Chairman of the National Housing Development and Urban Renewal Company Limited , The Hon. Rawdon Turner, to initiate a call-up of qualified construction companies to support the company in accelerating the construction of homes that have already been approved.
The company has identified several parcels of land that are ready for development under this initiative, to include 26 lots in Cedar Grove, 100 lots in Five Islands, 150 lots in Oliver’s, and 20 lots in Freetown.
This collaborative approach is intended to expand housing delivery, reduce waiting times for applicants, and ensure that more Antiguans and Barbudans are able to access safe and affordable homes in a timely manner.
Further details regarding the call-up process and participation requirements for construction companies will be announced by the National Housing Development and Urban Renewal Company Limited in the coming weeks.
4. The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has approved a major upgrade to the Department of Immigration’s Border Management System (BMS) and e-Visa platform, marking a significant step forward in strengthening border security, improving efficiency at ports of entry, and enhancing the overall travel experience.
The upgrade will modernise systems that have been in operation for more than a decade and have reached the end of their functional lifespan. The new platform will introduce advanced technology designed to support the country’s growing travel and tourism sector while ensuring alignment with evolving international security and aviation standards.
Key features of the upgraded system include enhanced passenger screening capabilities, automated processing of passenger information, and seamless integration across air and sea ports. The upgrade will also expand coverage to include Barbuda and introduce electronic gates (e-Gates) to facilitate faster and more efficient passenger movement.
The new system will strengthen security through improved biometric and watchlist functionality, expanded fingerprint databases, and upgraded reporting tools. It will also integrate with international law enforcement and aviation platforms, supporting compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards and future developments such as next-generation e-Passports.
In addition, the project includes a comprehensive upgrade of hardware and software, migration of existing data to the new platform, and the expansion of infrastructure across multiple ports of entry. Ongoing maintenance, technical support, and the involvement of local service providers will ensure the long-term sustainability and resilience of the system.
The Cabinet believes that failure to modernise the existing infrastructure would risk operational delays at ports of entry, increased security vulnerabilities, and potential negative impacts on tourism and border control operations. The upgrade is therefore considered both timely and essential.
The Ministry of Information, Communication Technologies, Utilities and Energy emphasized that the modernised system will significantly enhance national security, improve service delivery, and position Antigua and Barbuda to meet future border management and travel facilitation demands.
5. Cabinet has received a comprehensive update on the ongoing Airfield Expansion and Terminal Building project at the Barbuda International Airport, underscoring the Government’s commitment to strengthening air connectivity, tourism, and economic growth on Barbuda.
Officials from the Antigua and Barbuda Airport Authority (ABAA) — including Chairman Rolston Potter, Interim CEO Miguel Southwell, Chief Financial Officer Philmore Andrew, Operations Manager Rex Daly, and Maintenance Department personnel — attended Cabinet to brief Ministers on progress and future plans for the facility.
Cabinet was informed that the Barbuda International Airport is being prepared for expanded commercial air service over the next 24 to 36 months, an important step toward establishing direct international and regional connections for the island. This builds on the airport’s official opening in October 2024, when the facility replaced the former Codrington Airport and began accommodating a growing number of flights from commercial and private carriers.
In light of discussions, Cabinet agreed that a revised master plan for the airfield and new terminal building should be submitted for review within two weeks. In addition, the airport’s development strategy will prioritise completion of the new terminal building, with phased planning to follow for the airfield’s expansion to support larger aircraft and increased traffic. This decision aligns with the Government’s broader vision to position Barbuda as a key destination for tourism, commerce, and aviation services.
The airport authority was also advised to defer further work on the broader airfield expansion in favour of focusing immediate efforts on the terminal infrastructure — a move expected to enhance passenger processing, comfort, and operational efficiency. Expanded terminal capacity will be crucial as Barbuda continues to attract interest from regional airlines and grows visitor arrivals.
Barbuda’s improved air connectivity is part of a larger national aviation strategy that includes upgrades to other facilities such as VC Bird International Airport in Antigua — where runway rehabilitation, terminal modernisation, and expanded capabilities are underway to meet international standards and support increased passenger and cargo volumes.
The Cabinet emphasises that these investments will support job creation, enhance tourism infrastructure, and strengthen Barbuda’s role in the country’s economic development. Further updates on timelines, regulatory approvals, and aviation partnerships will be provided as planning advances and key milestones are reached.
6. Cabinet on Thursday received a comprehensive briefing on national security matters from senior members of the country’s security leadership.
The presentation was delivered by Commissioner of Police Mr. Everton Jeffers, Deputy Commissioner of Police Ms. Louise Benjamin Quashie, Chief of Defence Staff Colonel Telbert Benjamin, and Captain Trevor Pennyfeather of the Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force. The officials provided Cabinet with an update on current security conditions, operational readiness, and ongoing efforts to combat criminal activity.
Following the briefing, Cabinet approved the immediate recruitment of 50 police officers and 50 soldiers during the course of this year, as part of a strengthened national response to crime and security threats.
The decision reflects the Government’s firm commitment to taking the fight to criminals, enhancing law enforcement and defence capabilities, and improving the overall safety and security of Antigua and Barbuda.
Cabinet reaffirmed its support for the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda and the Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force, noting that the additional personnel will bolster operational capacity, improve visibility, and strengthen the country’s ability to protect its citizens and residents.
Suitably qualified individuals may apply immediately to the respective agencies.
7. Cabinet has appointed a Select Committee to coordinate activities to mark the historic milestone of 50 years of parliamentary service by The Honourable Sir Robin Yearwood, Antigua and Barbuda’s longest-serving and most distinguished parliamentarian.
The Cabinet Select Committee comprises Prime Minister the Honourable Gaston Browne, Attorney General the Honourable Sir Steadroy Benjamin, and Minister for Health, Wellness and the Environment the Honourable Sir Molwyn Joseph. The Committee has been tasked with planning and overseeing commemorative activities in recognition of Sir Robin’s five decades of continuous representation in the Lower House of Parliament.
As part of the observances, the House of Representatives will convene a Special Sitting on 18 February to formally celebrate and pay tribute to Sir Robin Yearwood’s exceptional contribution to parliamentary democracy and national development.
Prime Minister Gaston Browne paid tribute to Sir Robin’s extraordinary legacy, noting:
“Sir Robin Yearwood’s fifty years of uninterrupted service in the House of Representatives is an achievement of rare distinction, not only in Antigua and Barbuda, but across the wider Commonwealth. His longevity, dedication, and unwavering commitment to the people he represents reflect a deep respect for democratic governance and public service. The nation owes him a profound debt of gratitude.”
The Cabinet regards this milestone as a moment of national significance and looks forward to honouring Sir Robin’s service, leadership, and enduring contribution to public life.
8. Cabinet received a presentation from Mr. Michael Murrell, Forensic Director and Head of the Antigua and Barbuda Forensic Services outlining key priorities and proposed actions to strengthen Antigua and Barbuda’s national laboratory services, including improvements to infrastructure, expanded testing capabilities, and sustainable funding approaches to support critical diagnostic and analytical work across several sectors.
During the presentation, Cabinet was updated on the need for targeted renovations at Point Wharfto improve the functionality of the facility and create adequate workspace for staff engaged in essential operations. Cabinet also noted proposed renovation work for the Dunbar’s facility to support appropriate processing of samples.
Mr. Murrell further highlighted national needs for improved laboratory capacity in areas such as compliance testing for cannabis-infused products, as well as enhanced capability for pesticide residue testing, which is essential to safeguarding public health and food safety.
Cabinet also received a similar presentation from Dr. Linroy Christian, Director of Antigua and Barbuda’s Department of Analytical Services, the country’s main testing lab for food, water and environmental samples. Both professionals have been asked to return to Cabinet during its next sitting to advise on the best possible direction for the possible amalgamation of all government’s laboratory operations.
Cabinet agreed that strengthening laboratory services is critical to national development and will consider the recommendations, including the establishment of a sustainable financing model that supports reinvestment into equipment, staffing and operational improvement.
MAURICE F. MERCHANT
Director-General of Communications | Government of Antigua and Barbuda
Office of the Prime Minister|Queen Elizabeth Highway| St. John’s|Antigua and Barbuda
T: 268.462.9766 Ext 1067 | D: 268.462.9766 | F: 268.462.3225
E: [email protected] | [email protected]
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