分类： Politics

The Antigua and Barbuda government is moving ahead with a bold investment plan that would see the Jolly Beach Resort transferred to the Social Security Board as part of a long-term strategy to boost the pension scheme’s sustainability.

Prime Minister Gaston Browne announced that the 315-room beachfront property, spanning 27 acres and valued at EC$67 million, will be transferred to Social Security to offset a portion of a longstanding government debt. The debt stems from a $330 million bond issued in 2010, which has remained a non-performing asset on the Social Security books for more than a decade.

The proposed strategy involves selling the existing hotel units through the Citizenship by Investment Programme (CIP) at EC$900,000 per unit. This is expected to raise approximately EC$200 million, after administrative costs. An additional EC$75 million would then be invested to construct 200 new units on the property, with each unit projected to sell at EC$1.3 million—generating a further EC$200 million in net revenue.

In total, the government projects EC$400 million in revenue over ten years, averaging EC$40 million annually. Browne argued that this model significantly outperforms traditional fixed deposits, which yield about two percent annually.

The hotel’s operations would also factor into the revenue stream. Social Security could retain ownership and operate the resort, potentially increasing net earnings from the current EC$4 million to EC$10 million per year. Annual homeowner fees of EC$1,000 per unit are expected to contribute an additional EC$6 million annually toward maintenance.

Prime Minister Browne said that, even under conservative estimates, the real estate strategy would deliver superior returns compared to conventional low-yield investments. He also stressed that in the event of underperformance, the government would guarantee the value of the asset, offering a safeguard for the pension fund.

Critics of the plan have expressed concern over the risks of tying pension stability to tourism-related real estate. However, the government insists that stringent oversight measures—including independent audits, parliamentary reporting, and risk caps—will ensure accountability and prudent management.

The Prime Minister defended the move as part of a broader effort to diversify the Social Security portfolio and avoid past mistakes. He criticised previous administrations for failing to implement reforms or build an effective investment strategy, which contributed to the scheme’s past insolvency.

With Social Security now considered solvent following earlier reforms, the government sees the Jolly Beach plan as a strategic next step in securing long-term pension viability while revitalising a major tourism asset.

Montego Bay, Jamaica – 5 July 2025 – Prime Minister the Honourable Gaston Browne is leading Antigua and Barbuda’s delegation at the 49th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), being held in Montego Bay, Jamaica, from 6–8 July 2025. The Conference is being chaired by Dr. the Most Honourable Andrew Holness, Prime Minister of Jamaica.

Prime Minister Browne is joined by a senior delegation including:

• The Honourable E.P. Chet Greene, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Immigration and Trade;
• Dr. Clarence Henry, Ambassador to CARICOM; and
• Mr. Kurt Williams, Foreign Service Officer, Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The conference brings together regional leaders to tackle a comprehensive agenda that reflects the shared challenges and opportunities facing CARICOM member states. The deliberations are focused on enhancing regional integration, addressing the climate crisis, strengthening economic and food security, advancing youth participation, and deepening international partnerships.

One of the key agenda items is the continued implementation of the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME). Leaders will consider new mechanisms for enhanced cooperation, particularly in relation to free movement of skilled nationals, and address the recognition of aviation professionals under the skilled labour regime—a recommendation previously supported by Antigua and Barbuda and viewed as vital for regional connectivity and growth.

Prime Minister Browne has consistently called for greater functionality within the CSME, emphasizing the importance of reducing bureaucratic barriers and enabling the full participation of smaller economies.

As a strong voice on climate justice and global financial reform, Prime Minister Browne is expected to play a leading role in discussions related to climate resilience and financing for development, particularly for Small Island Developing States (SIDS).

The Conference will examine the Revised Regional Framework for Achieving Development Resilient to Climate Change (2025–2035), a strategy developed to align regional actions with the Paris Agreement and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The Framework outlines eleven strategic pillars aimed at fortifying the region’s defences against climate-related risks.

With COP30 in Belém on the horizon, CARICOM will also chart its roadmap for coordinated engagement in global climate negotiations. Prime Minister Browne is expected to reinforce the call for the adoption of the Multidimensional Vulnerability Index (MVI) and for greater access to concessional financing through mechanisms such as the Debt Sustainability Support Service (DSSS)—an initiative launched under his leadership during the 2024 SIDS4 Conference in Antigua and Barbuda.

The CARICOM Conference will also assess progress on the 25 by 2025 initiative, which aims to reduce the region’s food import bill by 25% by the year 2025. Updates from the Special Ministerial Task Force on Food Production and Food Security will inform decisions on extending the programme through 2030, focusing not only on import reduction but also on value-added agricultural production and intra-regional trade.

Antigua and Barbuda is particularly invested in ensuring that food and nutrition security strategies also contribute to rural economic development and resilience to climate shocks.

In addition, Heads of Government will discuss the dire humanitarian and security situation in Haiti, reviewing progress made by the Transitional Presidential Council (TPC) and the Multinational Security Support (MSS) Mission. The region will also consider CARICOM’s continued role in international advocacy, including efforts by the Eminent Persons Group (EPG).

Meanwhile, a security update from CARICOM IMPACS will inform conversations around transnational crime and justice, while a new Regional Telecommunications Strategy will be discussed to address equitable contributions from Over-the-Top (OTT) digital service providers, such as streaming and social media platforms.

Leaders will also consider proposals for enhanced governance of the CARICOM Secretariat, including new funding models and possible steps toward greater supranational authority in decision-making—a long-standing issue that Antigua and Barbuda has signalled support for in the context of regional efficiency.

In addition, a dedicated session will be held on the enhanced role of youth in regional development. The findings of regional youth consultations, spearheaded by the CARICOM Youth Ambassador Programme (CYAP), will be presented with the aim of shaping youth-inclusive policies moving forward.

Additionally, CARICOM leaders will receive an update on the CARICOM Education Transformation Commission, established to modernize and harmonize education systems across the region. Prime Minister Browne has previously advocated for reforms that link education more closely with economic opportunity and digital transformation.

CARICOM Heads will also consider updates on applications for Associate Membership from Colombia, the Dominican Republic, and French Guiana. The discussions will also explore the feasibility and strategic value of Community enlargement, taking into account geopolitical, trade, and human rights implications.

Meanwhile, the Conference will receive a progress report on CARIFESTA XV, scheduled to be held in Barbados in August 2025 under the theme “Caribbean Roots – Global Excellence”. The region’s premier cultural showcase will highlight the depth and diversity of Caribbean creative industries.

Throughout the Conference, Prime Minister Browne is expected to hold bilateral discussions with fellow Heads of Government, regional institutions, and international partners, further strengthening Antigua and Barbuda’s role as a proactive and influential member of CARICOM.

Before leaving Antigua on Saturday, Prime Minister Browne said that the Government of Antigua and Barbuda remains firmly committed to advancing regional unity, resilience, and prosperity, and to ensuring that CARICOM delivers practical solutions to the challenges facing Caribbean people today.

Antigua and Barbuda’s Public Accounts Committee (PAC) will meet again on 10 July following a disrupted first sitting marked by complaints over late documentation and procedural confusion.

Wednesday’s session, chaired by Opposition Leader Jamale Pringle, ended prematurely when members raised concerns over an unexpected agenda circulated just hours before the meeting.

Government MPs Melford Nicholas, Anthony Smith Jr., Daryll Matthew, and Barbuda MP Trevor Walker said the last-minute changes hindered their ability to effectively review public spending. Director of Audit Dean Evanson also admitted receiving the revised agenda only that morning.

Matthew challenged the Director over the timing, warning it undermined proper scrutiny. Evanson acknowledged the tight timeline, noting the meeting could have run into the evening had all agenda items been discussed.

Walker also stressed the importance of receiving printed financial statements and audit reports to support informed decision-making.

Further complications arose over the committee’s operational rules. Nicholas and Matthew argued that the PAC’s procedures—submitted to Parliament in July 2024—should first have been reviewed by a special committee before formal adoption.

The PAC is constitutionally mandated to hold the government accountable for public finances but has faced ongoing challenges with scheduling and quorum.

Prime Minister Gaston Browne’s latest attempt to deflect responsibility and mislead the public comes in the form of posting an article on global pension-fund diversification. This is yet another distraction tactic designed to confuse the conversation and avoid accountability.

The article he referenced — “The great diversification: Why pension funds are moving beyond stocks and bonds” — details the strategies of large, well-capitalized pension systems in North America and Europe. These funds operate with high liquidity, strong funding ratios, and regulatory safeguards. Antigua and Barbuda’s Social Security Scheme is in no such position.

🔷 Our Social Security Fund is underfunded and facing severe liquidity constraints.🔷 The real issue is not diversification, but restoring solvency and ensuring that pensioners are paid in full and on time.🔷 The Government’s proposal is not about innovation or financial strategy; rather, it is a gamble on a risky, tourism-dependent real-estate venture.

Let us be clear: This is not a regulated, diversified private-equity investment. This is a high-risk, single-asset bet on Jolly Beach, with no safeguards and no guaranteed return, because the tourism sector is known to be volatile and vulnerable to natural disasters and economic shocks.

Furthermore, the so-called “non-performing” bond disparaged by the Prime Minister should be yielding 6% interest to the Social Security Fund. It is non-performing only because the Government has failed to honour its payment obligations. That is not a market failure. It is a leadership failure.

First, PM Browne issued a challenge to debate me, Harold Lovell, on his claim of Jolly Beach being a viable investment for Social Security. Now, he has posted a nebulous article on his Facebook page to “inform” and “enlighten” the United Progressive Party (UPP).

Posting articles like this does nothing to educate the public about sound financial planning or to build financial literacy. This is fluff: distraction dressed up as policy. What this country needs is transparency, accountability, and real reforms to protect the retirement security of hard-working citizens and residents. He claims that swapping non-performing government bonds for the 27-acre, 315-room Jolly Beach Hotel, valued at US$25 million, will yield superior returns. He further suggests that selling rooms under the CIP could bring in US$70 million and that the hotel is currently turning a profit of US$1.5 million annually.

As a former Finance Minister, I am dismissing the theory as simplistic and fictional. Why not provide audited statements to demonstrate the true financial performance of Jolly Beach? I am challenging Gaston Browne to open the books and present a viable financial plan, rather than playing Warri with the people’s money.

It is time to stop the smoke and mirrors. Our pensioners and workers deserve more than political spin; they deserve a system that puts their security first.

The government of Antigua and Barbuda is set to reintroduce the Sugary Beverage Act for its second reading in Parliament, as part of its ongoing effort to reduce non-communicable diseases (NCDs) through legislation and public health programmes.

Speaking at the weekly post-Cabinet briefing, Director General in the Office of the Prime Minister, Maurice Merchant, confirmed that the legislation—first introduced months ago—is expected to be passed during the upcoming parliamentary session.

The bill seeks to impose measures that disincentivise the consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages, including the possibility of new taxes. Officials say this is part of a broader public health strategy to tackle rising levels of diabetes, obesity, and dental decay, particularly among young people.

“Sugar is very addictive,” Merchant said. “Once young people get a taste, they want it over and over again. And without good dental practices, this leads to long-term problems.”

In addition to the legislative push, the Cabinet has approved a national dental programme targeting school-aged children.

Starting in the new school year this September, the Ministry of Health will roll out fluoride rinses and dental sealant applications in all schools.

The initiative follows findings from a recent health fair, which revealed alarmingly high rates of cavities among children.

Officials also cited the high cost of dental care as a barrier for many families, noting that early prevention is both more effective and more affordable.

“This is about protecting the only teeth they’ll grow—and making sure they last a lifetime,” Merchant said.

The proposed tax on sugary drinks would align Antigua and Barbuda with similar measures already implemented in other Caribbean territories and is expected to be welcomed by public health advocates.

No specific rate or tax structure has yet been disclosed, but the Ministry of Health is reportedly working on the final details in preparation for the bill’s passage.

The government of Antigua and Barbuda is preparing to table new draft legislation on its Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programme during the next sitting of Parliament, expected before the end of July.

Director General in the Office of the Prime Minister, Maurice Merchant, confirmed the move during this week’s post-Cabinet media briefing, noting that while the legislation was not discussed in detail during Wednesday’s session, it remains a priority for the administration.

The draft bill is part of a coordinated effort among Eastern Caribbean states with active CBI programmes and is intended to address long-standing concerns raised by the European Union and the United States over programme integrity and due diligence.

Merchant said the legislation is designed to “tighten up or further secure the programme” to maintain its high standards, particularly in relation to the scrutiny of applicants.

The proposed changes come amid increasing international pressure on CBI jurisdictions to harmonise regulations and enhance transparency, particularly in light of recent global discussions around migration, border security and financial compliance.

Antigua and Barbuda, along with other OECS territories, has agreed to adopt a set of common standards for the operation of their CBI programmes. The bill’s passage will be a significant step in fulfilling those commitments.

The government has yet to release the full text of the proposed legislation, but officials say it will be placed on the order paper at the upcoming parliamentary sitting.

The government of Antigua and Barbuda is moving ahead with plans to acquire a dedicated cargo aircraft, with an official update expected from Prime Minister Gaston Browne at the next Cabinet sitting.

Although the matter was not discussed during Wednesday’s meeting, Director General in the Office of the Prime Minister, Maurice Merchant, confirmed that the Prime Minister is leading negotiations related to the aircraft purchase.

The initiative is part of broader efforts to strengthen regional logistics and food security.

Merchant noted that the aircraft will be operated in collaboration with LIAT, with the airline expected to play a key role in cargo movement across the region.

The government is also reportedly examining the possibility of establishing maritime transport links between Antigua and Dominica, among other OECS countries.

The aim is to improve the movement of agricultural goods and reduce reliance on international supply chains.

Officials say the initiative is being driven in part by global disruptions in shipping and the need for more resilient regional trade systems.

The Prime Minister is expected to provide further details on both the cargo plane and maritime proposals in the coming weeks.

Sevilla, Spain – 2 July 2025 – Antigua and Barbuda took center stage on the third day of the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development (FFD4), as Prime Minister the Honourable Gaston Browne delivered impassioned and visionary statements that positioned Small Island Developing States (SIDS) at the forefront of the global development agenda.

In a packed side event titled “Financing Development in a Climate-Challenged World: Debt Sustainability Support Service (DSSS),” Prime Minister Browne delivered the keynote address, heralding a transformative moment for global financing frameworks. Declaring that the world stood “at a turning point,” he underscored the urgency of tackling the interlinked challenges of debt, climate vulnerability, and sustainable development—challenges acutely felt by SIDS.

“The inclusion of the DSSS in the Compromiso de Sevilla, the final outcome document of FfD4, reflects the growing recognition that these converging crises demand innovative and inclusive solutions,” he said.

Highlighting the disproportionate burdens borne by SIDS, he stated, “We did not create this crisis. But we are stepping forward to offer solutions.” He described the DSSS as a country-led, SIDS-driven initiative—originating from the Antigua and Barbuda Agenda for SIDS (ABAS)—designed to place the voices and needs of the most vulnerable at the center of reform.

Later in the day, Prime Minister Browne was the sole Head of Government invited to deliver a Special Address at Multi-Stakeholder Round Table 5: Realizing a Development-Oriented Sovereign Debt Architecture. The high-level session, co-chaired by H.E. Pedro Sánchez, President of the Government of Spain, and H.E. Bassirou Diomaye Faye, President of Senegal, also featured Nobel Laureate Professor Joseph Stiglitz and other global financial leaders.

Addressing the gathering, Prime Minister Browne noted:

“For too long, our small island states have battled existential threats—climate shocks, pandemic aftershocks, and deep economic vulnerabilities—now compounded by unsustainable debt burdens. Our development and survival hang in the balance.”

He reiterated the centrality of ABAS as a strategic and action-oriented framework:

“ABAS is bold, comprehensive, and indispensable. It is more than a roadmap—it is a lifeline.”

Among the distinguished participants were Finance Ministers from Cameroon, Tunisia, and Ethiopia, along with senior representatives from the World Bank Group—underscoring growing consensus on the need to overhaul the global financial architecture.

As the conference progresses, Prime Minister Browne’s leadership remains a source of inspiration and resolve. He left the international community with a powerful charge:

“Financing for development must be measured not by pledges, but by progress. Now is the time to build a just and inclusive system—one that allows every nation, no matter its size or circumstance, to thrive. Antigua and Barbuda will persist until that vision is fully realized.”

The Interim Regulatory Commission (IRC) has published the draft legislation for the establishment of a regional regulator for Citizenship by Investment Programmes (CBI/CIP) – the Eastern Caribbean Citizenship by Investment Regulatory Authority (ECCIRA).

The draft legislation is available on the ECCB website for public comment until 16 July 2025.

The completion and publication of the draft legislation is a significant milestone in the ongoing effort to strengthen the transparency, accountability and integrity of CBI/CIP.

Once operationalised, the ECCIRA will regulate and supervise the industry, through a uniform law and common standards.

The draft legislation was completed following a series of in-country consultations, which were led by the IRC, over the period March to April 2025.

The consultations saw the IRC and the Legal Drafting Consultant, Ms Lydia Elliott, engage a broad and inclusive set of stakeholders – from Government, the CBI/CIP industry, international partners, the media and social partners.

The engagements provided critical feedback to guide the preparation of the draft legislation.

The IRC was appointed by the Heads of Government of the five countries with CBI/CIP Programmes, to oversee the establishment of a regional regulator.

The eight-member IRC comprises the following appointees:

1. Antigua and Barbuda – Lieutenant Colonel Edward Croft (Deputy Chair)

2. Commonwealth of Dominica – Ms Francine Baron

3. Grenada – Ms Julia Lawrence

4. Saint Christopher (St Kitts) and Nevis – Archdeacon Isaiah Phillip

5. Saint Lucia – Mr Evaristus Jn Marie

6. CARICOM Implementation Agency for Crime and Security (IMPACS)/Joint Regional Communications Centre (JRCC) – Mr Rufus Ferdinand

7. Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Commission – Mr Henith Gabriel

8. Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) – Governor Timothy Antoine (Chair)

The IRC wishes to thank all persons who have contributed to shaping the legal framework and now invites all and sundry to provide feedback on the draft now offered for public comment.

Feedback should be submitted via the following channels:

Email: CBIRegulator@eccb-centralbank.org or WhatsApp: 1 (869) 662-3543.

**REPORT FROM THE CABINET OF ANTIGUA AND BARBUDAMEETING OF WEDNESDAY 2 ND JULY 2025**

**Wednesday’s Cabinet Meeting, chaired by Acting Prime Minister the Hon. Sir Steadroy Benjamin. Prime Minister Browne is out of state attending the** Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development (FFD4) in Sevilla, Spain. The Prayers before Cabinet was led by a Pentecostal Pastor who read from 11 Thessalonians 3:16 which spoke of inner peace while doing the work of God. The Cabinet was reminded that they were appointed by God for a particular task and therefore they should be at peace with themselves, each other, within the communities and the nation as they execute their duties.

1. **The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda received an update from the Honourable****Daryll Matthew****, Minister responsible for Carnival, who confirmed that preparations are well advanced for what is anticipated to be one of the most vibrant and memorable****Carnival celebrations in recent history****.

Scheduled to take place from **July 25 to August 5** , this year’s festival—under the electrifying theme **“Itz A Vibe”** —is already generating heightened excitement and engagement both locally and internationally.

With just under three weeks to go before the official start, the Minister reported that participation levels are on the rise, as evidenced by the ongoing Soca and Calypso Quarterfinals. Final refurbishments and upgrades to Carnival City at the Antigua Recreation Grounds are nearing completion, ensuring the venue will be ready to host thousands of revellers and spectators.

Tickets are now on sale for most major events, and hotels across the island are reporting occupancy rates above 90% for the carnival period—a clear indication of strong regional and international interest.

To meet the growing demand, Caribbean Airlines has added two special flights from Trinidad and Tobago, while American Airlines is operating three daily flights from Miami, USA. LIAT is also reporting increased bookings from neighbouring islands, highlighting Antigua’s position as a key cultural destination in the region.

Minister Matthew also noted that the Festivals Commission continues to play a vital role in supporting the Watch Night Celebrations, commemorating the Emancipation from Slavery—the historical foundation upon which Carnival is built.

The Minister concluded by assuring the Cabinet and the public that all signs point to an exciting, safe, and culturally rich Carnival 2025, promising unforgettable experiences for residents and visitors alike.

1. **In a continued effort to promote****healthy lifestyles, positive youth development, and community engagement****, the Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has announced its support for a series of****community sports programmes and summer camps****to be held across the country during the current school holidays.

Recognizing the long summer break as a critical time to engage the nation’s youth, the Government is committed to supporting structured, enriching, and enjoyable activities that not only entertain but also educate and inspire. These programmes are designed to:

* Foster teamwork and sportsmanship

* Develop athletic skills and discipline

* Encourage healthy competition

* Provide a safe and supportive environment for fun and learning

* Steer young people away from negative influences and risky behaviours

The initiative reflects the Government’s broader strategy to invest in youth empowerment and national wellness through community-based action and inclusive programming.

Cabinet encourages all parents and guardians to take advantage of these opportunities by registering their children for participation once official announcements and community-level call-ups are made. The programmes will cater to a wide range of interests and age groups, offering activities in areas such as football, cricket, basketball, netball, athletics, arts and crafts, music, and more.

By supporting these summer initiatives, the Government reaffirms its commitment to nurturing the physical, mental, and social well-being of Antigua and Barbuda’s young people, and to building safer, healthier communities for all.

1. **The Honourable Minister for Education, Daryll Matthew, informed Cabinet that the Government’s decision to merge****Glanvilles Secondary School****and****Pares Secondary School****has been met with strong support from the affected communities.

As part of the Ministry’s commitment to transparency and public engagement, a series of public education initiatives are underway to keep stakeholders informed and involved in the transition. These efforts include a Town Hall Meeting scheduled for next Monday at the Pares Secondary School, where Ministry technicians will share detailed information on the merger process.

One of the major developments is the planned conversion of Glanvilles Secondary School into a specialized School of Agriculture, a move that aligns with national goals for skills development, food security, and agricultural innovation.

Minister Matthew also reported that preparatory work for the September 2025 merger is progressing. Assessment teams have been actively reviewing the infrastructure at both school sites to identify necessary upgrades and initiate improvements where needed, ensuring that the merged institution is ready to welcome students in a safe and conducive learning environment.

Last week, Cabinet officially announced the school merger, highlighting that the initiative is part of the Government’s broader strategy to create a sustainable, efficient, and high-quality educational system. The goal is to enhance learning outcomes, promote resource optimization, and foster equity—ensuring that all students have the tools and environment they need to succeed both academically and socially.

1. **The Minister for Health, the Hon. Sir Molwyn Joseph informed Cabinet of a deeply concerning incident involving the soon-to-be-opened pharmacy at the****Villa Polyclinic****, which was recently****broken into and completely looted****. The theft has resulted in a delay in the launch of pharmacy services, which were intended to serve residents of the****Point, Villa, and surrounding communities****with much-needed access to medications and healthcare support.

In response, the Cabinet has issued a directive mandating the immediate installation and enhancement of modern surveillance systems at all government and public facilities to safeguard public infrastructure and assets.

Priority buildings for security upgrades include:

* **Health clinics**

* **Government offices**

* **Public schools**

* **Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre**

Facilities already equipped with surveillance systems will undergo assessments to determine whether upgrades or expansions are necessary to meet current security standards.

This decisive action reflects the Government’s commitment to protecting public resources and ensuring that essential services are delivered to communities without disruption or compromise.

1. **The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has extended high commendations to the****United Hands Inc.****and the****Seventh-day Adventist Church****for their outstanding partnership with the****Ministry of Health****in hosting a successful****four-day Health Fair****at the****Multi-Purpose Cultural and Exhibition Centre****.

The Minister for Health, the Honourable Sir Molwyn Joseph, reported that over the course of just three days, the Fair delivered critical healthcare services to 1,110 individuals, including comprehensive medical assessments for more than 400 children.

Preliminary findings from the event have highlighted the need to re-evaluate healthcare delivery for the elderly, and revealed a growing demand for expanded dental services across the nation.

In response, Cabinet has approved several key health initiatives based on the Minister’s recommendations:

* **Extended Clinic Hours:** Community clinic operational schedules will be reviewed and adjusted to better accommodate elderly patients and others who rely on caregivers or public transport for medical access.

* **National Dental Expansion:** Beginning in **September** , the Ministry of Health will roll out a **Fluoride and Sealant Programme** targeting school-aged children. This initiative will be implemented in **all schools nationwide** , with technical guidance and support from the United Hands Inc. and the Seventh-day Adventist Church.

* **Legislative Action:** The Cabinet also announced that the **Second Reading of the Sugary Beverages Act** will proceed during the next sitting of Parliament, reflecting the Government’s commitment to improving public health outcomes and tackling non-communicable diseases.

Importantly, the Cabinet recognized the remarkable cost savings achieved through the Fair. It is estimated that the collaboration resulted in savings over **$2.5 million in dental services** and **$1.5 million in eye examinations and prescription eyewear** —a major benefit to both government resources and the individuals who received care.

The Government applauds the ongoing efforts of United Hands Inc. and the Seventh-day Adventist Church and its other civil society partners and remains committed to expanding accessible, affordable, and preventative healthcare across all communities.