Plans Announced to Expand ABS’s Presence and Upgrade Facilities

Minister of Information and Technology Melford Nicholas has unveiled plans to bolster Antigua and Barbuda’s public broadcasting capabilities by establishing an Antigua and Barbuda Broadcasting Services (ABS) bureau in Barbuda and upgrading the service’s existing facilities.

During his 2025 budget debate contribution, Nicholas highlighted the government’s commitment to ensuring ABS continues to serve as a regional leader in broadcasting.

“ABS has exemplified itself over the years, not only here in Antigua but within the sub-region. Its reach and quality have made it a go-to for regional events,” he said, citing its coverage of major festivals and sub-regional events like the Saint Lucia Jazz Festival and Dominica’s Creole Festival.

Nicholas announced plans to establish a Barbuda-based ABS bureau to cover the island’s developmental projects effectively.

“I intend to establish, working with MP Walker and the Barbuda Council, a bureau in Barbuda to ensure all the magnificent work being done there is accurately and comprehensively reported,” he said. The facility will likely feature a modular studio built from durable containers to withstand the island’s weather conditions.

The minister added that a young Barbudan journalist currently pursuing studies in Louisiana has been assured of employment upon her return to assist in building this new bureau’s local reporting capabilities.

Nicholas also addressed the need to improve ABS facilities in Antigua, describing the current studios as “embarrassing” and falling short of what the staff deserves.

Plans include transitioning operations temporarily to a facility above the Caribbean Cinemas building while a permanent state-of-the-art headquarters is constructed at the Sunshine Car Park Hub.

“ABS has consistently delivered best-in-class work, and it’s only fitting that its facilities match the quality of its output. This new facility will include modern amenities and provide a much-needed upgrade for our public broadcasting team,” Nicholas stated.

Acknowledging ABS’s critical role in preserving and advancing Antigua and Barbuda’s culture, Nicholas reiterated his support for the team, singling out key leaders for their contributions.

“Mrs. Braithwaite, Mr. Burford, and Mr. Parker have led ABS with a commitment to inform, educate, and showcase the best of our nation,” he said.

The upgrades and expansions planned for ABS underscore the government’s recognition of public broadcasting as an essential tool for transparency, information dissemination, and cultural preservation.

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