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Antigua and Barbuda, among other CARICOM member states, had set March 31, 2024, as the deadline for fully implementing the Freedom of Movement protocols.
However, Antigua and Barbuda has signaled its intention not to proceed with the final step of this process at this time.
Instead, the country plans to maintain its current Skills Certificate regime, which has been in place for several years.
This decision by Antigua and Barbuda has generated significant discussion and debate within CARICOM, particularly because the country has been more open to CARICOM nationals entering its borders compared to some other member states.
Prime Minister Gaston Browne has explained that moving to full freedom of movement now would place undue strain on the country’s already stretched social services, including schools and healthcare.
Dr. Clarence Henry, Antigua and Barbuda’s Ambassador to CARICOM, provided insights into the recent virtual meeting.
“Some countries expressed support for the protocols, while others had niggling inquiries that they wanted resolving . They requested extra time to have their concerns recorded and clarified ahead of another meeting set for Saturday March 23, where a final decision on whether the March 31 implementation date remains feasible or if a new date would be required,” he stated.
He mentioned that some member states, notably Jamaica, raised various concerns during the discussions. Other nations also expressed additional concerns and requested clarifications.
Antigua and Barbuda’s current approach allows twelve categories of Caribbean workers to travel freely within the region and be gainfully employed under the Skills Certificate regime.
The country plans to reconsider full implementation of Freedom of Movement at a more suitable time.
Dr. Henry also noted that during the meeting, some member states expressed support for the protocols, while others had specific inquiries that they wanted resolved.
As a result, they requested more time to address their concerns and clarify issues before a follow-up meeting scheduled for Saturday, March 23.
This subsequent meeting will determine whether the March 31 implementation date remains feasible or if a new timeline is required.
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Of course it’s JAMAICA who would be the highest vocal in the discussion bcos THEY benefited the MOSTEST from free movement look around the LEEWARD ISLANDS aka SMALL ISLANDS who is there reading havoc the most JAMAICANS every where they go they MUST carry their duttiest behavior….
The largest islands WINDWARD ISLANDS they not groaning about going there as their already there no leeward islands so their presence can be more felt
Andrew HOLNESS who you taking in who would dare go there to live HAITIANS cas it couldn’t be an Antiguan
What are the 12 categories of skill certificate that GOAB will accept?
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