The Pastor who attended Wednesday’s meeting of the Cabinet delivered the opening meditation based on Hebrews 1:1–2,focusing on the importance of recognising the voice of God and responding to His Word with obedience.
The Pastor reminded the Cabinet that the scripture declares that God, who in times past spoke to His people through the prophets, has in these latter days spoken through His Son. He explained that God has never ceased communicating with His people and that those who hear His Word have a responsibility not only to listen, but also to obey.
In illustrating his message, the Pastor recalled a familiar ZDK Radio news flash from the 1960s, which carried the memorable expression, “When the Big 11 talks, everybody listens.”
The Pastor used the expression to emphasise that when an important voice speaks, people instinctively pay attention. He suggested that the same principle should apply even more profoundly to the voice of Almighty God. When God speaks, His people must listen.
He reminded the Cabinet that leadership requires wisdom, discernment and humility and that those entrusted with the responsibility of governing should remain attentive to God’s guidance. The Prime Minister and members of the Cabinet were encouraged to allow God’s Word to influence their deliberations, decisions and service to the people.
The Pastor stressed that listening to God must ultimately result in obedience. He reflected that obedience to God’s direction opens the way for His blessings and encouraged the Cabinet and the wider nation to remain faithful so that Antigua and Barbuda may enjoy the abundance of God’s promises.
He further reminded the Cabinet that God’s call extends beyond those who hold public office. The entire nation was encouraged to listen to His voice, follow His direction and embrace the values of righteousness, compassion, unity and service.
In concluding the meditation, the Pastor prayed that God would be with the Prime Minister and members of the Cabinet, granting them wisdom and guiding them as they undertake the important work of governing the country. He prayed that they would remain obedient to God’s will and be strengthened to carry out their responsibilities faithfully.
The Pastor also prayed for Antigua and Barbuda and its people, asking God to remain with the nation, protect its citizens and guide the country along a path of peace and prosperity.
He concluded by praying that, as the Cabinet and nation listen and respond obediently when God speaks, Antigua and Barbuda will experience the abundance of His promises and continued favour.
1. Cabinet Introduced to New CEO of V.C. Bird International Airport; Approves Expansion Proposal for Barbuda International Airport
The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda on Wednesday was formally introduced to the new Chief Executive Officer of the V.C. Bird International Airport, who outlined his vision and immediate priorities for the continued development of the country’s principal international gateway.
The new CEO, Kurt Menal was accompanied by Chairman of the Board of the Antigua and Barbuda Airport Authority, Mr. Rolston Potter.
In welcoming the CEO, Cabinet noted the critical importance of V.C. Bird International Airport to Antigua and Barbuda’s tourism industry, economic development and international connectivity.
The CEO, who has been on the ground for approximately one month, told Cabinet that he has been impressed by the quality and capacity of the Airport Authority’s team and the significant investments already made in the airport’s infrastructure, including the recently completed rehabilitation of the runway and airside facilities.
The CEO advised Cabinet that one of his first priorities will be establishing a clear strategic direction for the Airport Authority, aligned with the Government’s vision for the development of the aviation sector and the wider economy.
A comprehensive strategic plan will be developed through consultation with Government, the Board, employees and industry stakeholders and is expected to guide the Airport Authority over the next five years. This will complement the airport master plan already approved by Cabinet, as well as future development and business planning.
At the operational level, the CEO said his immediate objective is to make the airport safer, cleaner, more reliable and more efficient, while placing greater emphasis on customer service and improving the overall passenger experience.
Cabinet was advised that the airport’s development strategy must also support Antigua and Barbuda’s evolving tourism product, including the country’s increasing focus on the premium visitor market, while continuing to accommodate the broader tourism sector.
The CEO outlined plans to strengthen the commercial performance of the Airport Authority, increase revenues and make more productive use of available commercial space within the terminal.
He also intends to work closely with the Ministry of Tourism and the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority to strengthen existing airline relationships and explore opportunities for new routes and markets. Particular attention will be given to opportunities for improved connectivity beyond Antigua and Barbuda’s traditional North American and European markets, including potential connections into Central and South America.
The CEO stressed that future airport expansion should be driven by the growth of the destination and supported by careful planning. Priority will also be placed on using improved processes, systems and technology to maximise the efficiency of existing facilities and improve the experience of passengers travelling through the airport.
As part of its consideration of the future development of Antigua and Barbuda’s aviation infrastructure, Cabinet also gave its approval to a proposal for the expansion of the Barbuda International Airport.
Cabinet noted that the continued development of the airport in Barbuda is essential to supporting the island’s expanding tourism sector, improving connectivity and positioning Barbuda to accommodate the anticipated growth in visitor arrivals and investment.
The approved proposal forms part of the Government’s wider strategy to ensure that the country’s aviation infrastructure keeps pace with national development. Cabinet underscored the importance of ensuring that airport development in both Antigua and Barbuda is properly planned to meet future demand while maintaining the required international standards for safety, security and operational efficiency.
Cabinet was also informed of plans to strengthen organisational performance and employee engagement.
The CEO has commenced a 90-day employee and stakeholder engagement programme, during which he is meeting with departments, employees, Government agencies and other stakeholders to gain a comprehensive understanding of the Airport Authority’s operations and organisational culture.
He also emphasised maintaining strong regulatory compliance and further developing the technical capacity of airport personnel.
The CEO also updated Cabinet on the longstanding challenges affecting the airport’s baggage-handling system, particularly during peak periods.
Cabinet was advised that an RFP (Request for Proposal) is being advanced for the procurement of two new baggage-handling units, which would provide greater reliability and redundancy. The procurement is regarded as an important priority for improving operational efficiency, security and the passenger experience.
Cabinet welcomed the CEO’s presentation and expressed its support for a strategic approach to the continued development of Antigua and Barbuda’s aviation sector.
The Cabinet also thanked Mr. Rolston Potter and the Board of the Antigua and Barbuda Airport Authority for their leadership and reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to working with the new CEO, the Board and airport employees to ensure that the country’s airports continue their development as modern, efficient, safe and passenger-focused international gateways capable of supporting the future growth of both Antigua and Barbuda.
2. Cabinet Reviews Service Station Dealers’ Concerns; Prime Minister Announces Further Consultations on Dealer Margins and Bank Processing Fees
Prime Minister the Honourable Gaston Browne on Wednesday updated the Cabinet on discussions held with representatives of service station operators and fuel haulers following concerns raised over the existing dealer profit margin and the recent increase in the retail prices of gasoline and diesel.
The Prime Minister informed Cabinet that he met on Tuesday with seven representative service station operators and several fuel haulers after a number of stations temporarily ceased operations. The operators subsequently agreed to reopen their stations following the discussions and an agreement that their concerns would receive further consideration.
The discussions followed the adjustment in fuel prices which took effect on September 1, 2026, after the Government had for several months absorbed increases in international petroleum costs in an effort to shield consumers from the full impact of higher global prices.
Prime Minister Browne told Cabinet that having listened to the concerns raised by the service station operators, he does not regard their requests as unreasonable and believes that a collaborative approach should be taken to determine what adjustments can reasonably be accommodated.
Among the principal concerns raised by dealers is the increasing use of credit and debit cards to purchase fuel. Operators explained that processing charges deducted by financial institutions and card companies significantly reduce the already limited margin they receive from each fuel sale.
The dealers also pointed to increased operating expenses, including higher labour costs. While welcoming the Government’s increase in the national minimum wage, they explained that wage adjustments throughout their businesses have added to operating costs and further affected profitability.
The Prime Minister informed Cabinet that he will engage the country’s commercial banks and the West Indies Oil Company Ltd. (WIOC) to discuss a Cabinet proposal aimed at providing temporary relief to service station operators.
Under the proposal, the banks would be asked to consider reducing the processing fee on card purchases of fuel from approximately 3.5 per cent to 1 per cent during the current period of heightened fuel prices.
Cabinet considers this a potentially useful temporary intervention which could provide immediate relief to dealers without transferring the full burden of increased operating costs to motorists.
The Prime Minister also advised Cabinet that the special review committee will be asked to examine the possibility of increasing the service station dealers’ margin from the existing 12 per cent to 15 per cent.
The review will consider the financial and operational circumstances of service station operators, including labour costs, banking charges and other expenses, while also taking into consideration the need to protect consumers from unnecessary increases at the pump.
The process builds upon the agreement reached during Tuesday’s meeting to establish a committee involving representatives of the service station operators, fuel haulers, Ministry of Finance and Office of the Prime Minister to determine an appropriate way forward. The committee is expected to complete its work within 90 days.
Cabinet also noted that, notwithstanding the September 1 adjustment, the Government has consistently sought to maintain fuel prices at levels that compare favourably with those elsewhere in the region.
The latest comparable ECCU data for July 2026, before Antigua and Barbuda’s September adjustment, placed the country’s gasoline price at EC$14.50 per imperial gallon, the lowest in the Currency Union, compared with an ECCU average of EC$17.66.
For regional context, the July ECCU comparison reported gasoline at approximately EC$16.75 in Saint Lucia, EC$17.00 in Grenada, EC$18.31 in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, EC$19.03 in Dominica and EC$20.74 in Montserrat, compared with Antigua and Barbuda’s then price of EC$14.50.
Cabinet noted that the comparatively low domestic prices were maintained in part through Government intervention during a period of significant volatility in international energy markets.
Cabinet reaffirmed that the objective of the ongoing discussions is to arrive at a solution that is fair to service station operators while protecting consumers from excessive increases in the cost of fuel.
The Prime Minister will therefore continue discussions with the dealers, commercial banks, WIOC and other stakeholders, while the special review committee examines the request for an adjustment to the dealer margin.
Cabinet welcomed the decision of service station operators to resume normal operations and expressed confidence that continued dialogue will result in a reasonable and sustainable resolution.
The Government reaffirmed its commitment to balancing the interests of consumers, service station operators and the wider economy, particularly during the current period of elevated international petroleum prices.
3. Cabinet Approves New Governance and Transparency Measures
The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has approved a series of measures aimed at further strengthening the country’s governance framework, enhancing transparency and ensuring greater public accountability in the conduct of Government affairs.
Acting on a proposal advanced by Prime Minister the Right Honourable Gaston Browne, Cabinet agreed that the Government will move to formally file in the Parliament of Antigua and Barbuda the list of persons serving in diplomatic appointments on behalf of the State.
Cabinet considers the measure an important addition to the country’s governance framework. The filing of the list in Parliament will provide a formal and transparent public record of the persons entrusted with representing Antigua and Barbuda in diplomatic capacities.
The Prime Minister indicated that the initiative forms part of the Government’s continuing efforts to strengthen accountability and ensure that appointments carrying significant public responsibilities are subject to an appropriate level of transparency.
Cabinet also agreed that senior positions within the Government will be publicly advertised when they become vacant.
The new approach is intended to broaden opportunities for suitably qualified persons to offer themselves for senior public service and Government positions and to promote a competitive and transparent process for identifying individuals with the appropriate qualifications, experience and leadership capabilities.
Cabinet determined that the measure should take effect immediately and will apply as senior Government vacancies arise.
The Government believes that openly inviting applications for senior positions will help to strengthen public confidence in the appointments process while allowing the State to draw from the widest possible pool of qualified and experienced candidates.
Consistent with the newly approved approach, the Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda is inviting applications for the position of Executive Chairman of the Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU).
Cabinet is seeking suitably qualified and experienced candidates capable of providing strong executive leadership and oversight of the Unit and ensuring that its operations continue to be conducted with the highest standards of professionalism, accountability, integrity and regulatory compliance.
The decision to openly invite applications for the position reflects the Government’s commitment to ensuring that appointments to senior and strategically important positions are supported by transparent and competitive selection processes.
Cabinet underscored that the three measures—the filing of the country’s list of diplomatic appointments in Parliament, the public advertisement of senior Government vacancies, and the invitation of applications for the Executive Chairman of the Citizenship by Investment Unit—form part of a broader commitment to strengthening good governance in Antigua and Barbuda.
Prime Minister Browne emphasised that Government institutions must continue to evolve and embrace measures that reinforce transparency, accountability, merit and public confidence.
Cabinet reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening the institutions of the State and ensuring that Antigua and Barbuda’s governance framework continues to meet the expectations of its citizens and the standards required of a modern democratic society.
4. Cabinet Announces Zero-Tolerance Approach to Littering and Intensifies National Clean-Up Campaign
The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has announced a zero-tolerance approach to littering and the illegal occupation of public spaces, as Government intensifies efforts to improve the cleanliness, safety and appearance of communities throughout the country.
Cabinet determined that stronger enforcement measures are necessary to address indiscriminate dumping, abandoned and derelict vehicles, and the unauthorised occupation of beaches, roadsides and other public spaces.
Effective immediately, the Ministry of Social Transformation, working in collaboration with the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda, the National Solid Waste Management Authority and the Development Control Authority, will commence an intensified programme to identify and remove derelict and abandoned vehicles from communities across the State.
Cabinet noted that abandoned vehicles are not only unsightly but can create environmental and public-safety concerns and negatively affect the appearance of communities.
Owners of derelict vehicles are therefore encouraged to take immediate steps to have them removed from public spaces. Government agencies have been instructed to enforce the relevant laws and procedures governing their removal.
Cabinet also announced that the Government will move to increase the penalty for littering to EC$5,000 and will take the necessary legislative steps to give effect to the measure.”
In an effort to encourage greater public participation in identifying offenders, Cabinet further agreed that 50 per cent of the fine collected will be paid to persons whose information, provided through the Police Tip Line, leads to the successful identification and prosecution of persons engaged in littering.
The initiative is intended to send a clear message that the indiscriminate disposal of garbage and other waste will no longer be tolerated.
Cabinet is encouraging citizens and residents who witness acts of illegal dumping and littering to utilise the Police Tip Line and provide information that can assist the authorities in taking action against offenders.
The Ministry of Social Transformation has also been directed to take the necessary action to address the unauthorised occupation of beaches and roadsides.
Cabinet agreed that persons squatting or unlawfully occupying these public spaces will be required to remove their structures and belongings, with the Ministry taking appropriate action where necessary.
Government emphasised that the country’s beaches must remain accessible for the enjoyment of citizens, residents and visitors and that roadsides and other public areas must not be occupied in ways that create hazards, obstruct access or contribute to unsightly conditions.
Cabinet underscored that Government will continue to provide the resources necessary for national clean-up and beautification efforts, but stressed that keeping Antigua and Barbuda clean is a shared responsibility.
The Cabinet is therefore calling upon households, businesses, motorists and communities to dispose of waste responsibly and to refrain from dumping unwanted appliances, vehicles, construction material and household waste along roadsides, on vacant lands, at beaches or in other unauthorised areas.
The Government will combine public education, community clean-up initiatives and stronger enforcement to bring about a lasting improvement in the physical environment.
Cabinet reaffirmed that there will be zero tolerance for littering and illegal dumping and called on all citizens and residents to join the national effort to keep Antigua and Barbuda clean, safe and beautiful.
5. Parliament to Convene September 18 to Consider Major Public Safety and Justice Legislation
The Attorney General and Minister for Legal Affairs, the Honourable Sir Steadroy Benjamin, informed the Cabinet that the House of Representatives will convene on Friday, September 18, 2026, with a significant legislative agenda that includes measures intended to strengthen law enforcement, modernise the justice system and respond to concerns surrounding firearm-related and other serious crimes.
The Attorney General advised Cabinet that the upcoming sitting will consider several important pieces of legislation, including the Police Bill, 2026; Fire and Rescue Service Bill, 2026; Antigua and Barbuda Forensic Services Bill, 2026; Firearms (Amendment) Bill, 2026; Magistrate’s Code of Procedure (Amendment) (No. 2) Bill, 2026; and Mental Health Care Bill, 2026.
Cabinet noted that the legislative programme assumes particular importance against the backdrop of the recent upsurge in incidents involving firearms and the Government’s determination to strengthen the legal and institutional framework available to law-enforcement agencies.
The Attorney General informed Cabinet that amendments to the firearms legislation and the Magistrate’s Code of Procedure are intended to provide stronger sentencing provisions for serious firearm-related offences and enhance the powers available to the courts.
He explained that the proposed changes would increase the sentencing jurisdiction of magistrates in specified matters, while providing substantially stronger penalties at the High Court level for serious offences involving firearms. The Government views these measures as an important deterrent to persons who may contemplate becoming involved in firearm-related criminal activity.
The Attorney General stressed that the Government is determined to ensure that the laws provide an effective response to the illegal possession and criminal use of firearms and that the penalties available to the courts appropriately reflect the seriousness of such offences.
Cabinet was also updated on the Police Bill, 2026, which represents a major modernisation of legislation governing policing in Antigua and Barbuda.
The Attorney General explained that the proposed legislation will provide an updated framework for the functioning of the various departments of the police organisation, including provisions governing the manner in which complaints are addressed. It will also transition the organisation from being styled the Police Force to the Police Service, reflecting a modern approach to policing and service to the public.
The Fire and Rescue Service Bill, 2026 will similarly modernise the legislative framework governing the country’s fire service, replacing decades-old legislation and formally recognising its broader responsibilities as a modern fire and rescue organisation.
The Antigua and Barbuda Forensic Services Bill, 2026 will establish the country’s forensic services in law as a distinct institution, strengthening its capacity to undertake forensic examinations, analyses and other functions required to support criminal investigations and the administration of justice.
Cabinet considers the strengthening of forensic capability particularly important as law-enforcement agencies increasingly rely upon scientific evidence and modern investigative techniques in the detection and prosecution of serious crimes.
Parliament will also consider the Mental Health Care Bill, 2026, which is intended to modernise the legal framework governing the treatment and care of persons requiring mental-health services.
The Attorney General indicated that the legislation seeks to improve procedures so that persons requiring intervention can receive appropriate attention without unnecessary delays under outdated processes.
Cabinet welcomed the Attorney General’s presentation and noted that the legislative agenda represents an important component of the Government’s wider programme to modernise the institutions responsible for public safety, law enforcement and the administration of justice.
While stronger penalties form part of the response to serious crime, Cabinet emphasised that Government’s approach also involves modern policing, stronger investigative and forensic capabilities, institutional reform and ensuring that law-enforcement agencies have an appropriate legislative framework within which to operate.
The Cabinet reaffirmed its commitment to providing the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda, the courts and other agencies within the criminal justice system with the legislative tools necessary to protect the population and respond effectively to firearm-related violence and other serious crimes.
The Government encourages members of the public to follow the proceedings of the House of Representatives when Parliament convenes on Friday, 18th September, 2026, as these important measures are presented for consideration.
