Prime Minister Gaston Browne has issued a stern warning to the leadership of Antigua and Barbuda’s Public Works Department, signaling potential administrative changes if long-standing inefficiencies are not swiftly addressed. CLICK HERE TO JOIN OUR WHATS APP GROUP
Speaking on Pointe FM, Browne highlighted a series of delays and mismanagement within the department, specifically pointing to issues with road repairs and maintenance that have left residents frustrated.
In his interview, Browne singled out the Director of Public Works, Alden Crump, for failing to execute critical infrastructure projects despite repeated efforts by the Cabinet to provide necessary resources and support.
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Browne described a series of delays that have left potholes unaddressed and road repairs incomplete, with some projects stalled for months or even years.
One notable incident involved essential road-cutting saws, which were intended to expedite road repairs but were mistakenly shipped to the wrong country, further delaying much-needed work.
“We have been providing the Public Works Department with funds, manpower, and equipment to get these projects done, yet we are still seeing no progress,” Browne said. “It’s clear that changes may be necessary if this level of inefficiency continues.”
Browne emphasized that his administration has exhausted all avenues to encourage improvement, repeatedly meeting with Public Works officials to resolve bottlenecks.
However, the lack of responsiveness and accountability has pushed the Prime Minister to consider a different approach. He noted that the Cabinet had already approved the hiring of additional workers and allocated significant funds to accelerate road maintenance projects, but these resources have yet to be effectively utilized.
According to Browne, the inefficiencies within the Public Works Department have not only affected infrastructure but have also compromised public health. Residents living in areas with unpaved or damaged roads have reported respiratory issues due to excessive dust, a situation Browne described as unacceptable.
“I am passionate about ensuring justice for the people, and I take my job seriously. It is frustrating to see people suffering because of the negligence of public servants who should be working for their benefit,” Browne stated. He gave Crump and the Public Works team a 60-day deadline to show significant improvements or face potential administrative restructuring.
Browne’s warning highlights the government’s commitment to holding public servants accountable, especially in key areas like infrastructure that directly impact the lives of citizens. The Prime Minister’s remarks have sparked a renewed call for reform within the Public Works Department, as residents and government officials alike demand greater efficiency and transparency.
The Public Works Department has yet to respond to Browne’s comments, but the Prime Minister made it clear that his administration would not hesitate to take action if the necessary improvements are not made.
“If you can’t deliver, then it’s time for change,” Browne concluded.
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The time is now Mr. PM. Enough is enough with the poor road conditions. Demote, reassign or terminate those who can’t do the job and bring in someone who can. No more delays, no more excuses. I’m surprised the government hasn’t approached a Chinese engineering company to address the road situation. As much as this might ruffle some feathers, we know it would be done the right way and quickly.
Please !! only now. ..hmm
Why did the man get the position…Pm u can not be trusted on ” passionate about ensuring justice for the people, and I take my job seriously “.
So many ppl have been shafted in the service. You have a PSC member who tells ppl that the Pm will decide. So why bother have interviews for top posts? That member will tell people I hope you dont leave the Service, but is doing everthing to see you go.
You see this , what’s happening at PWD , is simply put : national karma.
Where is the minister of Works in all this shouldn’t she also get a tongue lashing as much as Crump, what a f**k up place this is
When we are given an opportunity to demonstrate our skills, techniques, competency and abilities we fall short and resort to making excuses while still collecting our pay. So the administration who must answer to the people, must do what they have to do. We are living in a different age now and we have to up our game.
What a joke. not his wife over public works? Instead of accepting his wrong and apologizing for neglecting an important sector of public service he is looking for someone to blame so he can take credit for fixing a problem that he and his wife created.
his wife drive on these roads one of her children attend school on one of the worst roads in Antigua
And the blame game continues. Water problems,APUA former general manager. Nearly a year after ,I am still sometimes 10 days without running water in my pipe . Health care problems blamed on nurses not the incompetent minister of health . Poor roads ,blame on the director of public works ,not the minister that no one every knows her true functions. The people are so politically divided ,that the truth is alien to them . I know as a Christian society we should always stand up for the truth ,but the so call christians looking to see what they can get free,whether it is a free water tank or food voucher ,not the truth . Our country will never be better on lies . Principles,morality ,integrity,accountability and character is out the door in our country . God help us .
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