Opposition Senator Shawn Messiah on Thursday offered his support for the Eastern Caribbean Citizenship by Investment Regulatory Authority Agreement Bill 2025, describing it as a constructive and non-contentious measure that will strengthen public trust and international confidence in the region’s investment programs.
During his contribution to the debate in the Upper House, Messiah said the initiative marked an important step for small island economies like Antigua and Barbuda, which rely on Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs to generate development revenue amid growing global scrutiny. He noted that larger countries, including the United States and European nations, continue to apply pressure on Caribbean jurisdictions, making it critical for the region to act collectively to protect its reputation and economic interests.
“I think this is on the right path for us within the region,” Messiah said, recalling his participation in consultations led by the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank. “Based on the discussions we had and what went into it, I feel that it’s on the right path for us within the region.”
He credited the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank for its leadership in bringing regional governments together to design a harmonized framework that promotes due diligence, transparency, and public confidence.
Messiah also urged the government to ensure that senators are given sufficient time to review legislation before it reaches the floor, particularly when dealing with lengthy and complex bills. “When we have bills as voluminous as these, we should get them well ahead of time,” he said, explaining that earlier circulation would allow for more informed debate and public engagement.
The bill, which gives domestic legal effect to the establishment of a regional regulatory authority to oversee Citizenship by Investment programs, passed the Senate without amendments following broad bipartisan support.
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