A pastor attended the Cabinet meeting this week and delivered the opening meditation, drawing his message from Psalm 1, with particular emphasis on verses 1 and 6.
The pastor reflected on the importance of walking in righteousness and seeking God’s direction in all aspects of life. He reminded members of Cabinet that Psalm 1 distinguishes between the path of those who seek to live according to godly principles and the path of those who turn away from them.
Drawing on verse one, the pastor encouraged Cabinet members to be mindful of the counsel they receive and the influences that shape their actions and decisions. He emphasized that those entrusted with leadership have a particular responsibility to exercise sound judgment and to be guided by principles that promote righteousness, justice and the welfare of others.
Reflecting on verse six—“For the Lord knoweth the way of the righteous”—the pastor reminded Cabinet that God is aware of the path taken by those who seek to do what is right. He encouraged members to remain steadfast in carrying out their responsibilities and to continually seek divine wisdom as they deliberate on matters affecting the nation.
The pastor noted that leadership carries significant responsibility, since the decisions taken by Cabinet can have far-reaching consequences for individuals, families, communities and the country as a whole. He therefore encouraged members to approach their deliberations with wisdom, humility and a sincere desire to serve the interests of the people of Antigua and Barbuda.
In concluding the meditation, the pastor offered prayers for Prime Minister the Hon. Gaston Browne and the members of Cabinet, asking God to grant them wisdom, understanding and discernment.
He prayed that their deliberations and decisions would be guided by God and that the choices they make would ultimately serve the best interests and well-being of the people of Antigua and Barbuda.
1. Cabinet Advances Legislative and Criminal Justice Measures to Address Gun Crime and Serious Sexual Offences Against Minors
The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda held extensive discussions on the recent increase in gun-related crime and violence and examined additional measures to strengthen the country’s criminal justice system, including sentencing, prosecution, prison administration and law-enforcement capacity.
Cabinet reaffirmed that the Government will continue to pursue a comprehensive response to serious crime, combining stronger law enforcement with legislative reform and improvements throughout the criminal justice system.
Following its deliberations, Cabinet agreed that the Government will shortly take legislation to Parliament to establish minimum and maximum sentences for serious gun crimes and sexual offences committed against minors.
Before the proposed legislation is finalized and presented to Parliament, the Government will undertake consultations with relevant stakeholders to obtain their views and ensure that the proposed measures receive appropriate legal and technical consideration.
The decision represents a further development in the Government’s continuing examination of sentencing policy. Parliament has previously increased the maximum penalties applicable to serious firearm offences, while Prime Minister the Hon. Gaston Browne has repeatedly expressed concern that some sentences imposed for gun crimes have not provided a sufficient deterrent.
Cabinet emphasized that the proposed legislative process will be undertaken within the constitutional framework governing the respective responsibilities of Parliament, the Executive and the Judiciary.
Cabinet also approved immediate measures to strengthen the country’s prosecutorial capacity.
The Government will provide for the employment of up to five additional lawyers to bolster the prosecution team within the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).
The Cabinet also agreed to the provision of full scholarships to two police officers to pursue the Law programme at the University of the West Indies Five Islands Campus. The two trained police officers upon graduation, will join the prosecution team within the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP)
Cabinet recognized that stronger legislation and more effective policing must be supported by a properly resourced prosecution service capable of preparing and presenting criminal cases efficiently and effectively.
The Government has previously emphasized that its response to crime must extend across the entire criminal justice chain rather than focus exclusively on sentencing.
Cabinet further approved the implementation of a training programme for prosecutors.
The programme is intended to strengthen professional capacity in the prosecution of criminal matters, particularly serious and complex cases, and to ensure that prosecutors are equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively represent the State.
The training initiative will complement the recruitment of additional attorneys and form part of a broader programme to improve the effectiveness of criminal prosecutions.
Cabinet also approved the digitization of the records management system within the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda.
The initiative is expected to improve the storage, retrieval and management of police records and strengthen the ability of investigators and prosecutors to access relevant information in a timely manner.
The Government has previously committed resources to expanding the use of digital technology in crime fighting, alongside investments in surveillance cameras, drones, vehicles and other law-enforcement assets.
Cabinet views the digitization programme as particularly important to improving coordination between investigators and prosecutors and strengthening the management of criminal cases from investigation through prosecution.
Cabinet emphasized that the decisions form part of a wider Government strategy to confront gun crime and other serious offences through legislation, enforcement, prosecution, technology, correctional reform and rehabilitation.
The Government has over the past two years progressively strengthened its response to violent crime, including increasing penalties for gun offences, introducing anti-gang legislation, expanding law-enforcement resources and advocating stronger measures against repeat offenders.
Cabinet reaffirmed that the safety and security of the people of Antigua and Barbuda remain paramount and that the Government will continue to strengthen every component of the criminal justice system necessary to deter serious crime, successfully prosecute offenders and protect the wider society.
2. Cabinet Approves Amendment to Prison Rules Governing Remission of Sentences
The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has approved an amendment to Rule 211 of the Prison Rules governing the remission of prison sentences, as part of the Government’s ongoing review of the criminal justice system and its response to concerns surrounding serious crime and sentencing.
The matter was presented to Cabinet by the Hon. Sir Steadroy Benjamin, Attorney General and Minister for Legal Affairs, Public Safety, and Labour, following Cabinet’s recent discussions on sentencing, repeat offending and the mechanisms by which periods of imprisonment may be reduced.
Cabinet was advised that under the existing Rule 211, a prisoner serving a term exceeding one month becomes eligible for unconditional release after completing two-thirds of the term of imprisonment, subject to any days forfeited under the applicable Prison Rules.
The Attorney General advised Cabinet that remission remains an important component of the rehabilitation process and is provided for under the Prison Act, Cap. 341. Cabinet therefore determined that the principle of remission should be retained, but that the existing rules governing its application should be strengthened.
Under the amendment approved by Cabinet, a prisoner who satisfies the prescribed requirements after completing two-thirds of his or her sentence may become eligible for consideration for remission, rather than becoming automatically eligible for unconditional release.
The amended Rule 211 will require the Superintendent of Prisons to make a recommendation to the Governor General where a prisoner is considered suitable for remission. The prisoner may then be discharged pursuant to the remission granted.
The change therefore introduces an additional level of consideration and oversight into the process while preserving remission as an incentive for industry, good conduct and rehabilitation within the prison system.
The amended rule also provides that remission will not be permitted where doing so would result in a person serving less than 31 days of imprisonment.
Cabinet was advised that the Prison Rules constitute subsidiary legislation made under the authority of Section 26 of the Prison Act and that the amendment to Rule 211 does not require the convening of a sitting of Parliament.
The Attorney General also drew Cabinet’s attention to Section 84 of the Constitution of Antigua and Barbuda, which provides for the exercise of the Governor General’s powers in relation to pardons, respites, the substitution of less severe punishment and the remission of sentences, in accordance with the constitutional provisions governing the exercise of those powers.
Cabinet approved the proposed Prison (Amendment) Rules, 2026, thereby authorizing the necessary steps to bring the revised remission arrangements into effect.
The decision forms part of a series of measures being pursued by the Government as it strengthens the country’s response to gun-related and other serious crimes.
Cabinet has been examining sentencing policy, prosecution capacity, repeat offending, prison administration and other components of the criminal justice system to ensure that the consequences imposed for serious criminal conduct provide an effective deterrent while maintaining appropriate opportunities for rehabilitation.
Cabinet emphasized that the amendment does not abolish remission for good conduct. Rather, it changes the process so that completion of two-thirds of a sentence does not, by itself, result in unconditional release. A recommendation must first be made by the Superintendent of Prisons and considered through the prescribed constitutional process.
The Cabinet reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to strengthening public safety, promoting accountability within the criminal justice system and ensuring that the administration of prison sentences appropriately balances punishment, deterrence, rehabilitation and the protection of the public.
3. Cabinet Approves New Traffic Enforcement Equipment for Royal Police Force
The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has approved a recommendation from the Attorney General and Minister responsible for Public Safety, the Hon. Sir Steadroy Benjamin, for the acquisition of new traffic enforcement equipment for the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda.
Cabinet approved US$30,000 towards the purchase of 25 tint meters, 25 professional breathalyzers and 12 handheld radar devices, as Government moves to strengthen the capacity of the Police Traffic Department to enforce the nation’s traffic laws and improve safety on the country’s roads.
The Attorney General advised Cabinet that the equipment is considered necessary in light of concerns over the number of traffic accidents and the role that excessive speed and intoxicated driving continue to play in serious road collisions.
The Police have also raised concerns about the widespread use of excessively dark vehicle tints, which can obstruct visibility into vehicles and present challenges for law-enforcement officers in the execution of their duties.
The tint meters will allow officers to objectively determine whether vehicle windows comply with the legally permitted level of tint. The breathalyzers will strengthen the Police Force’s ability to detect motorists suspected of driving while intoxicated, while the handheld radar devices will assist officers in identifying motorists travelling above established speed limits.
Cabinet noted that equipping police officers with the appropriate technology is essential to effective enforcement. The acquisition will provide officers with additional tools to detect violations, apprehend offenders and support prosecutions arising from breaches of the traffic laws.
The Attorney General advised that the initiative is intended not only to improve road safety but also to contribute to the Government’s wider public-safety and national-security programme.
Of particular concern is the use of heavily tinted vehicles, which can conceal the identities and activities of occupants and may be exploited by persons engaged in criminal activity.
Improved enforcement of the laws governing vehicle tinting will therefore complement other measures being undertaken by law-enforcement agencies to combat crime.
Cabinet also emphasized that speeding and impaired driving pose significant risks not only to offending motorists but also to passengers, pedestrians and other road users. The new equipment will allow the Police Traffic Department to adopt a more proactive and evidence-based approach to enforcement.
Cabinet approved the US$30,000 allocation as part of its continuing investment in strengthening the operational capabilities of the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda.
The Government remains committed to providing the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda with the resources necessary to protect lives, strengthen law enforcement and enhance public safety throughout Antigua and Barbuda.
4. Cabinet Announces ABST Reduction Weekend to Assist Families with Back-to-School Expenses
The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has confirmed that another Antigua and Barbuda Sales Tax (ABST) Reduction Weekend will be held on Friday, 28 August and Saturday, 29 August 2026, as part of the Government’s continuing efforts to assist parents and guardians with the cost of preparing students for the reopening of schools following the summer holidays.
During the two-day period, the ABST will be reduced to zero percent on qualifying school supplies and food items, providing families with an opportunity to make essential back-to-school purchases at reduced cost.
The decision follows an earlier commitment by Cabinet to provide targeted tax relief during important periods of household expenditure, particularly when families are preparing children for the start of a new school term.
Earlier this year, Cabinet implemented a similar measure on 10 and 11 April 2026, when ABST was reduced to zero percent on food items and school supplies ahead of the reopening of schools following the Easter break. The measure was intended to provide direct financial relief to families and cushion households from continuing global cost-of-living pressures.
The ABST initiative will cover a broad range of school-related items, including pencils, pens, notebooks, school uniforms, school bags, shoes, calculators, geometry sets, art supplies, IT supplies and home economics supplies and food items.
The measure forms part of the Government’s wider programme of support for students and families, which includes the provision of school uniforms and the School Meals Programme.
Cabinet recognizes that the beginning of a new school year can place additional financial demands on households, particularly those with multiple school-aged children. The temporary removal of ABST from school supplies is therefore intended to allow parents and guardians to realize savings on essential educational and food items.
The Cabinet encourages parents and guardians to take advantage of the Friday, 28 August and Saturday, 29 August 2026 tax-relief period to purchase the supplies required for their children’s return to school.
The Inland Revenue Department will provide the necessary guidance to businesses and the public on the qualifying school supplies and administrative arrangements for the two-day ABST Reduction Weekend.
Cabinet reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to implementing practical measures that support families, ease cost-of-living pressures and ensure that the nation’s students are adequately prepared for the start of the new academic year.
5. Cabinet Receives Presentation on Drone Technology to Strengthen National Security
The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda received a presentation from a United States-based company on the potential deployment of advanced drone technology to strengthen the country’s national security and public-safety capabilities.
The presentation outlined a proposed National BVLOS (Beyond Visual Line of Sight) Security Network, utilizing drone technology and supporting command-and-control systems to provide enhanced aerial surveillance, intelligence gathering and rapid response capabilities.
Cabinet was informed that, with the appropriate regulatory approvals and operational framework, drones could be deployed rapidly to reported incidents, allowing dispatchers and security personnel to obtain an aerial assessment of situations before officers arrive on the ground.
Among the potential applications identified were surveillance of high-value and strategic locations, enhanced monitoring of ports and coastlines, verification of reported incidents, identification of persons, vehicles and vessels, and support for the operations of the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda and the Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force.
The presentation also highlighted the potential use of the technology to strengthen surveillance around seaports, tourism areas, government facilities and other critical national infrastructure.
Cabinet was advised that visible and repeatable aerial patrols could also serve as a deterrent to criminal activity, particularly in identified hotspots and other areas requiring increased security attention.
An important component of the proposal is the development of local technical and operational capacity. The company indicated its willingness to train local officers, supervisors, dispatchers and technical personnel, allowing Antigua and Barbuda to develop an in-country capability rather than depend solely on external contractors.
The proposed programme would also allow the security agencies to measure its effectiveness by monitoring such indicators as response times, verified incidents, hotspot activity, quality of evidence and the effectiveness of the technology in supporting security operations.
Cabinet emphasized that no final decision has been taken on the acquisition or deployment of the proposed system.
The proposal will now be subjected to further technical, operational, financial, legal, regulatory and national-security assessment by the appropriate authorities.
The national security team, in consultation with the relevant agencies, will examine the suitability of the technology to Antigua and Barbuda’s security requirements, its compatibility with existing security infrastructure, training and maintenance requirements, privacy and data-protection considerations, regulatory requirements and overall cost-effectiveness.
Cabinet will also consider whether any deployment should initially be undertaken on a limited or pilot basis, allowing the Government and security agencies to assess operational results before contemplating a wider national rollout.
Following the assessment, the national security team will submit its recommendations to Cabinet for consideration.
Cabinet noted that modern technology can serve as an important force multiplier for the country’s security agencies, particularly given Antigua and Barbuda’s need to effectively monitor coastlines, ports, communities and critical infrastructure.
The Government remains committed to examining appropriate technologies that can strengthen intelligence gathering, improve response times, support law-enforcement and emergency-response agencies and enhance the protection of residents and visitors.
6. Cabinet Approves Major APUA Infrastructure and Modernisation Initiatives
The Management of the Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA) appeared before the Cabinet on Wednesday and provided a comprehensive update on several major infrastructure projects being undertaken by the Authority, including the proposed rehabilitation of the Potworks Dam Spillway, ongoing water distribution works, the implementation of a new supervisory control system, and the modernisation of critical telecommunications infrastructure.
Following the presentation, Cabinet gave its support and approval to requests intended to advance the projects, noting their importance to the continued improvement, reliability and resilience of the country’s public utilities infrastructure.
A major component of the presentation focused on the condition and proposed rehabilitation of the Potworks Dam Spillway.
APUA reported that engineering investigations have identified structural deterioration and significant seepage affecting the spillway. Among the issues identified are settlement of concrete slabs, damaged joints, instability of retaining walls, water seepage and internal erosion of foundation material.
The assessment also identified deterioration within the stilling well, including differential settlement, clogged weeps and separation between sections of the structure. The lateral walls at the inlet have also experienced settlement, while some steel reinforcement has become exposed over time.
Despite these challenges, the engineering assessment determined that the underlying soil remains capable of supporting the structure. APUA therefore recommended rehabilitation rather than complete reconstruction, advising that this represents a safe and feasible solution which can be implemented more quickly and at a significantly lower construction cost.
The proposed rehabilitation works will include the use of a high-performance compacted clay liner, reinforced concrete slabs and fluid soil-cement injection to address seepage, erosion and structural deficiencies.
Cabinet approved the advancement of the rehabilitation project, recognizing the importance of safeguarding the integrity of the Potworks Dam infrastructure and ensuring its long-term resilience.
APUA also updated Cabinet on several projects aimed at improving the country’s water distribution network.
Under works being undertaken by Trinweld, approximately 1,945 linear feet of pipe is required for identified works along St. Mary’s Street, Thames Street and High Street.
Management further reported progress under the WIMAN programme, with pipe installation works completed in several communities. Works at Buckley’s/Montrulla, Law Pasture and Newfield have been completed, representing another important step in strengthening the country’s water distribution infrastructure.
Cabinet was also updated on the implementation of APUA’s SCADA project, valued at approximately US$1.94 million.
The Authority reported that funding has been received and that the second project milestone has been completed following approval of the Functional Design and Design Specifications.
The project will now proceed to the Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) stage.
Cabinet noted that the SCADA system represents an important component of the Authority’s continuing modernisation programme, allowing for improved monitoring and management of utility operations.
APUA also presented plans for a significant upgrade of its Central Office telecommunications infrastructure, estimated at approximately US$7 million and expected to be implemented over approximately three years.
Management advised that approximately US$4 million will be required during the first year of implementation. The project will include upgrades to the Central Office infrastructure, mobile switch, remote sites and associated core telecommunications systems.
The programme will also involve improvements to the Central Office HVAC system to provide adequate cooling and environmental control for critical telecommunications equipment, as well as the modernisation of supporting network infrastructure to improve coverage, capacity, reliability and overall service quality.
APUA advised Cabinet that the upgrade has become particularly important since elements of the existing software and hardware are expected to become obsolete and unsupported next year. The investment is therefore considered necessary to ensure continued system reliability and technical support.
Cabinet approved the Authority proceeding with the necessary arrangements to advance the upgrade, recognizing telecommunications infrastructure as critical to the country’s economic and social development.
Cabinet commended the Management of APUA for the detailed presentation and for its continued work to strengthen the country’s water and telecommunications infrastructure.
The Cabinet reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to supporting strategic investments by APUA that improve the reliability, efficiency and resilience of essential services. It noted that the projects presented form part of a wider programme of infrastructure improvements intended to provide Antiguans and Barbudans with more dependable utility services while ensuring that the country’s critical infrastructure is equipped to meet future demands.
7. Board of Education Updates Cabinet on School Expansion, Renovation and Maintenance Programme
The Management of the Board of Education appeared before the Cabinet and provided a comprehensive update on work being undertaken during the summer break to prepare the nation’s schools for the start of the new academic year.
Cabinet was informed that the Board has been utilizing the summer period to undertake a wide-ranging programme of construction, expansion, renovation, repairs and general maintenance across the education plant, with several major projects being advanced simultaneously.
The Management reported that, in addition to its continuing involvement in the development of the new Five Islands Primary School, expansion works are being advanced at the Clare Hall Secondary School, Antigua Grammar School and Pigotts Primary School.
Cabinet also received an update on plans for the expansion of the Sir Novelle Richards Academy. The Ministry of Education will finalize the details and requirements for the proposed expansion as the Government continues to respond to the growing need for additional and improved educational spaces.
The Board advised Cabinet that additional funding will be allocated during the upcoming school year for major expansion and renovation works at schools across Antigua and Barbuda.
Cabinet noted that the continued investment in the education plant is necessary to provide students and teachers with safe, comfortable and appropriate environments for teaching and learning, while also responding to increased enrolment and the changing needs of the education system.
Alongside the major capital projects, the Board is carrying out its customary summer maintenance programme at schools throughout the country.
The works include plumbing and electrical repairs, replacement of windows, installation of new furniture and other general repairs and improvements required to have school plants ready for the return of students and teachers.
Cabinet was advised that the Board continues to work closely with school administrators and the Ministry of Education to identify priority areas and ensure that the most urgent works are addressed ahead of the reopening of schools.
The Board of Education is also providing support to institutions affiliated with the Antigua and Barbuda College of Advanced Studies (ABCAS) as the Government continues to strengthen and expand opportunities for tertiary, technical and vocational education.
Cabinet noted the important role being played by the Board in supporting the Government’s wider programme of educational development, from the improvement of primary and secondary school infrastructure to the expansion of post-secondary education and skills training.
Following the presentation, Cabinet commended the Management and staff of the Board of Education for their sterling performance and for the considerable volume of work being undertaken during the summer period.
Cabinet particularly acknowledged the Board’s ability to manage major expansion projects while simultaneously carrying out repairs and maintenance across the school system and providing support to other educational institutions.
The Government reaffirmed its commitment to continuing its investment in education infrastructure and ensuring that the country’s students and educators have access to facilities that support quality teaching, learning and skills development.
Cabinet looks forward to the completion of the ongoing summer works and to the continued implementation of the major school expansion and renovation programme during the 2026–2027 academic year.
8. Festivals Commission Reports Successful Carnival 2026; Planning to Begin for Historic 70th Anniversary in 2027
The Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission was invited to Cabinet on Wednesday to present a comprehensive report on the hosting of Antigua Carnival 2026, including its financial performance, attendance at major events, visitor participation and preparations for the historic 70th Anniversary of Antigua Carnival in 2027.
The Commission reported that Carnival 2026 was successfully delivered within its approved EC$5.2 million budget. The Commission further advised that it has been meeting with the various stakeholders involved in the festival and continues to honour its obligations arising from the staging of this year’s celebrations.
Cabinet commended the Festivals Commission, its management and staff, participating artistes, promoters, service providers and other stakeholders for what it described as an excellent Carnival 2026.
The Commission also reported encouraging growth in public support for the festival, with ticket sales increasing for the majority of Carnival shows when compared with corresponding events over the previous three years. Cabinet welcomed the improvement as an indication of growing public interest in the national festival and the entertainment products being presented.
The positive performance extended beyond the Carnival venues. The Commission reported an increase in visitor arrivals and visitor participation in Carnival activities, while hotels and smaller accommodation properties, including mini-hotels, also recorded increased occupancy compared with previous years. Cabinet noted that these developments demonstrate the wider economic value of Carnival to the tourism, transportation, entertainment, food and beverage and other service sectors.
Attention has now turned to Carnival 2027, which will mark the 70th Anniversary of Antigua Carnival. Cabinet advised the Commission that planning for the milestone celebration should commence immediately and that the anniversary should be positioned as a major national, regional and international cultural event.
Cabinet specifically urged the Commission to develop a full and engaging programme without blank days in the Carnival schedule, ensuring that residents and visitors have activities and entertainment options throughout the festival period.
The Commission was also advised to begin the regional and international marketing of Carnival 2027 at the earliest opportunity. Cabinet emphasized that the 70th Anniversary provides Antigua and Barbuda with an important opportunity to significantly expand the international profile of the festival, attract increased visitor arrivals and showcase the country’s music, mas, pageantry, calypso, soca and wider creative industries.
Cabinet encouraged the Commission to build upon the successes and lessons of Carnival 2026 and to engage stakeholders early in the planning process to ensure that the 70th Anniversary celebration is appropriately designed, marketed and executed.
The Government views Antigua Carnival not only as the country’s premier cultural festival, but also as an important economic and tourism product that provides opportunities for artistes, musicians, designers, vendors, promoters and other members of the creative sector.
Cabinet looks forward to receiving further updates from the Festivals Commission as preparations advance for what is expected to be an historic 70th Anniversary celebration of Antigua Carnival in 2027
