Global Pulse

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  • VIDEO: Pringle Calls on Public to Attend PAC Meeting

    VIDEO: Pringle Calls on Public to Attend PAC Meeting

    Opposition Leader and Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC), Hon. Jamale Pringle, has issued a fresh appeal for public engagement and government accountability, as he prepares to convene a critical meeting of the PAC on Thursday, July 3.

    Speaking in a televised address, Pringle reaffirmed his commitment to transparency and democratic oversight, stressing the importance of citizen participation in safeguarding public finances.

    “As Leader of the Opposition and Chairman of the PAC, I will be there, ready to work on your behalf,” Pringle said, urging citizens to attend the session and observe proceedings from the public gallery.

    The PAC is tasked with scrutinising government expenditure and ensuring value for money in public projects. However, Pringle highlighted persistent challenges in convening meetings and ensuring meaningful oversight.

    He raised fresh concerns about what he described as the government’s continued resistance to scrutiny, questioning why Finance Minister Gaston Browne’s administration would avoid oversight if there was “nothing to hide.”

    Pringle pointed to several unresolved matters he believes merit urgent investigation by the PAC, including:

    • The Friars Hill Road property transaction
    • The financial health of the Social Security Board
    • Funding and progress of the Blue Ocean dredging project
    • The alleged $27 million car park development
    • Irregularities in the National Housing Scheme
    • Accountability of statutory boards

    “These examples highlight a pattern of self-dealing, secrecy, and a lack of accountability in how public projects and funds are managed,” he said. “Demanding accountability is not a witch hunt or a game of politics. It is about protecting your interest, your investment, your sacrifice.”

    The Opposition Leader also sought to clarify the powers of the PAC under parliamentary rules, noting that while formal decisions require a quorum, discussions can still be held in the presence of attending members. He described the PAC as “a vital check on executive power” and warned that continued obstruction undermines the integrity of public life.

    Despite recent obstacles, Pringle vowed to press ahead, calling the July 3 meeting an opportunity for the government to demonstrate a willingness to be held accountable.

    “I sincerely hope and expect that every Committee member will be there, ready to be accountable,” he said.

    The government has not responded to the latest remarks.

  • ABWU Urges Crackdown on Employers Who Fail to Remit Social Security Contributions

    ABWU Urges Crackdown on Employers Who Fail to Remit Social Security Contributions

    The Antigua and Barbuda Workers’ Union (ABWU) has issued a stern warning to employers who violate workers’ rights by deducting Social Security contributions from employees’ wages, yet fail to remit those contributions to the Social Security Scheme as required by law.

    In letters addressed to the Antigua and Barbuda Employers’ Federation (ABEF) and the Antigua and Barbuda Hotels and Tourism Association (ABHTA), the ABWU expressed serious concern over the impact of this persistent and troubling practice on workers.

    Deputy General Secretary of the ABWU, Chester Hughes said:

    “Withholding or delaying these contributions is not only illegal but morally reprehensible! It directly undermines the financial security and future wellbeing of hardworking men and women, including single mothers who have every right to expect that their contributions are being paid and recorded.”

    The Union warned that this form of disenfranchisement has long-term consequences for workers, especially those nearing retirement or who may be forced to rely on benefits due to illness, injury, or unemployment.

    “Many employees only discover the non-payment after trying to make a claim in times of great need. This betrayal erodes workers’ financial security and undermines public confidence in both employers and the social protection system.”

    The ABWU is calling on the ABEF and the ABHTA to take immediate action by urging its members to comply with the laws governing Social Security contributions. The Union is also appealing to the Government and the Antigua and Barbuda Social Security Board to step up enforcement efforts and hold delinquent employers accountable.

    “This should include more robust inspection protocols, stiffer penalties for non-compliance, and public disclosure of offending employers,” the letter detailed.

    The ABWU stands ready to work with all relevant stakeholders to ensure that this matter is addressed with the urgency and seriousness it demands.

  • Antigua and Barbuda Records Lower Inflation in Early 2025 Compared to 2024

    Antigua and Barbuda Records Lower Inflation in Early 2025 Compared to 2024

    St John’s Antigua, July 2, 2025. The Statistics Division, under the Ministry of Finance and Corporate Governance releases the CPI for Mar 2025.

    Year-on-Year Analysis

    The Consumer Price Index (CPI) increased by 4.3% over the twelve months ending March 2025. Inflation during the first quarter of 2025 rose at a slower rate compared to the same period in 2024, reflecting a continued stabilization in prices following the economic impact of COVID-19 and the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

    The Food Index rose by 0.4% over the year, with mixed movements across categories. The Fruit Index increased by 5.0%, driven by a 23.9% rise in Frozen, Preserved, or Processed Fruit and Fruit-based products. Bread and Cereals rose 3.7%, Meat and Meat Products (+3.2%), Food products Not Elsewhere Classified (NEC) (+2.7%), and Sugars, Jams, Honey, Chocolate, and Confectionery (+2.6%).

    In contrast, Oils and Fats declined by 10.8%, with average prices falling for I Can’t Believe It’s Butter ($22.76 to $16.77), Peanut Butter ($16.06 to $15.07), Soya oil ($9.78 to $8.16), and Olive Oil ($40.35 to $39.44). The Fish and Seafood Index also declined, with Frozen Fish prices falling from $22.80 to $16.57, Canned Tuna in water from $5.41 to $4.64, and Canned Tuna in Oil from $5.16 to $4.45.

    Core inflation, measured by the index for All Items Less Food and Energy, rose by 4.8%. The main contributors were increases in Miscellaneous Goods and Services and Restaurants and Hotels both recorded increases over 14.0%, followed by Health (+10.5%), Alcoholic Beverages, Tobacco and Narcotics (+8.4%), and Actual Rentals for Housing (+6.3%).

    Month-to-Month Price Changes

    In March 2025, the Monthly Consumer Price Index (CPI) declined by 1.6% compared to February 2025, driven primarily by a decrease in the Transport Index (-11.0). The Food and Non-Alcoholic Beverages Index also fell by 0.5%, as both its components declined.

    The Food Index dropped 0.5%, with prices decreasing in six of the nine major supermarket food groups. Notably, the Fish and Seafood Index declined 3.1%, reflecting lower prices for Frozen Fish ($19.21 to $16.57) and Sardines in Water ($4.71 to $4.62). The Oils and Fats Index fell 2.7%, with reductions in the prices of I Can’t Believe It’s Butter ($18.72 to $16.77) and Peanut Butter ($16.08 to $15.07). Further declines were recorded in Milk, Cheese and Eggs (-1.9%) and Bread and Cereals (-1.3%).

    In contrast, prices rose for Food Products NEC (+3.5%) and Sugars, Jam, Honey, Chocolate, and Confectionery (+1.7%). The Non-Alcoholic Beverages Index declined 0.5%, with three of its four subcategories recording decreases.

    The All Items Less Food and Energy Index fell 2.0%, mainly due to lower airline fares and a reduction in the Alcoholic Beverages, Tobacco, and Narcotics Index.

  • NOTICE: Night Road Works Begin Tonight on Long and High Streets

    NOTICE: Night Road Works Begin Tonight on Long and High Streets

    The Ministry of Works wishes to advise the general public that night works shall commence at 6:00 pm tonight in the following areas:

    • Long Street

    • High Street

    The Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA) will be working on the following streets:

    • Independence Avenue

    • Thames Street

    Please exercise caution, as heavy duty equipment will be in operation.

    Road users are asked to adhere to the detours, and follow all instructions provided by employees controlling traffic.

    Motorists are also advised to remove their vehicles prior to works.

  • “Not us!” Caricom Reparations Commission.

    “Not us!” Caricom Reparations Commission.

    The following statement is issued by the Vice-Chancellor of The University of the West Indies (The UWI), Professor Sir Hilary Beckles in his capacity as Chair of the CARICOM Reparations Commission.

    There has been much media reporting in the last week referencing a Caribbean group visiting Britain and the European Union with a reparations agenda; statements to the effect that these individuals, comprising a few from the Caribbean but mostly Europeans, will engage in reparations conversations with political officials and civil society groups.

    As a consequence, the Caricom Reparations Commission (CRC) has received several requests for interviews and comments, necessitating a statement to clarify the situation for the betterment of all concerned.

    These persons who have arrived in Europe are neither members of the CRC nor formally affiliated.

    For over a decade, the CRC has been actively promoting reparatory justice campaigns on a global basis and has adopted an open-tent policy approach to facilitate broad-based advocacy. Through mutual agreements and formal Memoranda of Understanding, the CRC has partnered with many organisations, including universities, churches, families and financial institutions.

    The CRC has recently received approval from the Caricom Heads of Government to inaugurate a European public relations campaign to share its vision of reparations with political stakeholders and the general public. It is actively working on the design of the same. Supporting the historic grassroots movement with government support, the CRC is deeply mindful of its complex diplomatic role and public responsibility in shaping the regional and global movement.

  • Pete Cummings granted bail with conditions after marine equipment theft

    Pete Cummings granted bail with conditions after marine equipment theft

    Pete Cummings, 28, charged with stealing over $21,000 in equipment from a marine business, has been granted bail with strict conditions.

    The Nut Grove resident must report to police thrice weekly, avoid English Harbour, and maintain distance from the victim.

    Police allege Cummings broke into Marine Power Service on 2 May, stealing a TIG welding plant, power drill, office furniture, and cash totaling $21,580.

    He appeared before Magistrate Ngaio Emanuel and was released on $30,000 bail. The trial date is set for 24 September.

  • UPDATE: Missing Man Guyan Anderson Found Safe, Family Expresses Gratitude

    UPDATE: Missing Man Guyan Anderson Found Safe, Family Expresses Gratitude

    UPDATE: Missing person Guyan Anderson, 25, has been safely located and has made contact with family.

    The family thanks the public for their assistance in sharing the appeal.

  • Armed Robbery Suspects Denied Bail in All Saints Case

    Armed Robbery Suspects Denied Bail in All Saints Case

    Ernesto Estevan Lawrence and Maurice Belgrave Jr. have been remanded in custody after being charged in connection with an armed robbery at the All Saints Service Station.

    The robbery, which occurred on 28 June, involved the theft of more than $4,000 and the firing of a single gunshot, with no reported injuries.

    Both men face aggravated robbery and ammunition possession charges, while Lawrence also faces firearm-related charges. The suspects will appear again in court on 24 September.

    Authorities continue to investigate and encourage anyone with information to contact local law enforcement.

  • ABHTA Hosts People & Culture Retreat – Shaping the Future of Tourism Workplaces!

    ABHTA Hosts People & Culture Retreat – Shaping the Future of Tourism Workplaces!

    On June 25, 2025, the Antigua & Barbuda Hotels and Tourism Association (ABHTA) proudly hosted its inaugural People and Culture Retreat, bringing together HR professionals, People Managers, and industry stakeholders for a dynamic day of education, empowerment, and strategic insight.

    MORNING SESSION

    Morning Session focused on Navigating the Collective Agreement and Labour Code, Moderated by Celia Roberts Morgan.

    The morning panel featured:

    • Chester Hughes, Deputy General Secretary, Antigua Barbuda Workers Union

    • Lisa John Weste, Attorney-at-Law, Thomas, John & Weste

    • Hollis Francis, Attorney-at-Law, HEF Law

    The panelist explored current Collective Agreement negotiations and how HR teams can navigate key issues like:

    – Public holiday entitlements

    – Meal allowances

    – Staff probation & disciplinary policies

    – Standardizing employee handbooks (launching Q4 2025)

    Participants also addressed operational challenges facing People Managers today, including probationary periods, harassment, marijuana usage, absenteeism, and the ongoing need for staff training.

    Mr. Chester Hughes urged HR professionals to become deeply familiar with both the Collective Agreement and the Labour Code, noting that this knowledge is crucial to maintaining compliant, effective, and employee-centered operations.

    AFTERNOON SESSION

    Afternoon Session focused on Mental Wellness and Wellness as a Business Strategy, moderated by Laurie Louard,

    The afternoon session featured presentations from:

    • Dr. Teri-Ann Joseph, Deputy Chief Medical Officer

    • Isha Joseph-Moore, Executive Head of People & Culture, Jumby Bay Island

    • Chester Hughes, ABWU

    • Harriet Warner, Counselor

    • Jamion Knight, International Psychotherapist and former United Nations Official

    Tackling Absenteeism: A Sector-Wide Wake-Up Call

    The afternoon retreat began with a compelling look at absenteeism, led by Isha Joseph-Moore (Executive Head of People & Culture, Jumby Bay Island) and Chester Hughes (Deputy General Secretary, ABWU), who shared sobering statistics that revealed the scale of the issue:

    📊 Based on a sample of just 7 ABHTA member properties:

    • Sample size: 892 employees

    • Over 6,000 workdays lost

    • Financial impact: EC $1.4 million

    They emphasized that absenteeism is not just a financial concern—but a workforce development issue. They called for a tripartite approach between Industry, Government, and the Education Sector to combat its root causes.

    🧘‍♀️ Actionable Wellness Strategies

    Harriet Warner shared tools employers can implement immediately:

    – Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs)

    – Normalize mental health conversations

    – Workplace social events that include family

    – Flexible scheduling for parents

    – 5–10 minute mental health breaks

    – Wellness check-ins during team huddles

    – New staff mentorship programs

    – Workplace wellness & sports clubs

    – Calm spaces for private conversation

    Medical Insights: The Cost of Mental Illness

    Dr. Teri-Ann Joseph presented critical data on the global and local cost of untreated mental illness:

    • 1 in 5 employees experience a mental health issue

    • Many hide their diagnosis out of fear of discrimination

    • Mental illness is understood poorly, heavily stigmatized, and deeply disabling

    • Global cost of mental health issues:

    o $2.5 trillion in 2017, projected to rise to $6 trillion by 2030 (WHO)

    • Workplace stress and depression remain leading causes of lost productivity, increased sick leave, and early retirement

    🧍‍♂️ Men’s Mental Health & Safe Spaces

    Jamion Knight delivered a powerful call to action: support men’s mental health through Psychological First Aid frameworks and intentionally created safe spaces where vulnerability is met with respect, not judgment.

    From Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs) to shift adjustments for working parents, speakers shared tools to help organizations build more supportive, engaged, and emotionally intelligent teams.

    The retreat was overwhelmingly well-received, with participants commending the honest dialogue and practical tools presented throughout the day. Attendees have called for similar events to be hosted more frequently.

    The ABHTA is pleased to announce that a follow-up People and Culture Retreat is being planned for October 2025, continuing its commitment to “Investing in People, Powering the Future.”

  • Youth Parliament to Debate Tougher Laws on Drug Use Among Minors

    Youth Parliament to Debate Tougher Laws on Drug Use Among Minors

    Antigua and Barbuda’s National Youth Parliament Association (NYPAB) will tackle the growing issue of drug misuse among minors during its sitting on 3 July.

    The debate will focus on strengthening laws to curb the use of cannabis, tobacco, and other substances by young people. Youth Prime Minister and MP for St John’s City South, Chrysean Jarvis, said the proposed bill seeks to improve enforcement, which remains weak despite existing laws.

    “We want to see stricter enforcement and a holistic reduction in drug use among minors,” Jarvis said. “This includes not just cannabis, but tobacco and other substances.”

    The legislative proposal also recommends penalties for adults who supply drugs to minors and calls for better-funded rehabilitation programmes aimed at youth.

    NYPAB President Jessica Zouetr explained the topic was chosen through a vote among youth MPs, who recognised the urgency of addressing rising drug use.

    The sitting will also examine how media and digital platforms influence youth behaviour. Jarvis noted that part of the proposal includes creating a Ministry of Health, Digital Literacy, and Media Awareness to educate both young people and parents.

    “We must look at what children consume online — from music videos to social media — and how that impacts their choices,” he added.

    The session begins at 9:30 a.m. at Parliament.