The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda convened its weekly meeting on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, under the chairmanship of Prime Minister Gaston Browne and Sir Steadroy Benjamin, who assumed the chair following Prime Minister Browne's departure to the United States late Wednesday afternoon.
The meeting opened with prayer and meditation led by a Catholic Priest and Deacon, who read from the Gospel of John 16:12–15. The passage, which speaks of the Holy Spirit guiding believers into truth, was presented as a reminder that wisdom, discernment and good governance require humility, patience and openness. The Priest prayed for the nation's leaders, asking that their decisions promote justice, peace, unity and national development, and that God continue to guide Antigua and Barbuda forward.
A delegation from the Ministry of Works — comprising the Minister of State, the Permanent Secretary, the Director of Works and the Deputy Director of Works — briefed Cabinet on the progress of the All Saints Road project and ongoing roadworks across the country. The Ministry advised that rehabilitation efforts will continue at their current pace, with increased attention now directed toward improving road networks in rural communities.
Cabinet approved the acquisition of two additional pieces of specialized equipment designed to facilitate roadworks in areas with narrower-than-standard road dimensions. The equipment is expected to significantly enhance the Ministry's capacity to undertake paving and rehabilitation works in smaller roads and harder-to-reach communities.
Cabinet also approved the engagement of additional technical experts to strengthen the Ministry's ongoing work, with the aim of improving project execution, efficiency and the overall quality of infrastructure development nationwide. Ministers took the opportunity to commend the leadership and staff of the Ministry of Works for what was described as excellent work being undertaken throughout the country, praising the team's dedication, professionalism and commitment to advancing the Government's infrastructure agenda.
The Government reaffirmed its commitment to continued investment in road infrastructure as part of its broader national development strategy, aimed at improving connectivity, enhancing public safety and supporting economic growth.
In a significant social policy decision, Cabinet approved the establishment of a Safe Haven facility, an initiative led by the Ministry of Social and Urban Transformation. The facility will serve as a dedicated, trauma-informed national centre providing emergency shelter, therapeutic care, family strengthening services and structured reintegration support for vulnerable women and children.
Cabinet approved the formalization of strategic partnerships to support the Safe Haven's development and operation. Team Island Girls has committed EC$350,000 toward construction and capital development, representing the culmination of several years of fundraising for the cause. An Alabama-based church partnership will contribute volunteer labour, development support, furnishings and community engagement assistance.
The Government has approved a capital investment of EC$500,000 to support land identification, site preparation, regulatory approvals and initial construction works, bringing the total start-up funding envelope to EC$850,000.
The Safe Haven will operate as an integrated national protection mechanism under the joint leadership of the Family and Social Services Division and the Directorate of Gender Affairs, overseen by a dedicated steering committee to ensure governance, accountability and coordinated service delivery. Cabinet authorised the execution of Memoranda of Understanding with identified partners and directed the Attorney General's Chambers to provide legal drafting support. Phase I activities are expected to commence within two weeks.
Cabinet also addressed a matter of public safety and grief, expressing deep sadness over the death of Mr. Lightfoot, an employee of the National Solid Waste Management Authority, and extended sympathies to his colleagues and family. Ministers acknowledged the vital contributions made daily by sanitation and waste management workers across the country.
Cabinet expressed grave concern over the increasing prevalence of reckless driving on the nation's roads, noting that Mr. Lightfoot's death was followed by a separate incident on Wednesday morning in which another National Solid Waste Management Authority worker was struck by a vehicle while on duty.
The Government appealed to all motorists to exercise greater caution, patience and responsibility — particularly in areas where public workers are carrying out duties along roadways. Cabinet reaffirmed its commitment to ongoing discussions with relevant authorities on measures to improve road safety and protect frontline workers in vulnerable roadside environments.
Cabinet also acknowledged the recent passing of former meteorologist Philbert Mason and contractor and philanthropist Evrod Roberts. Ministers paid tribute to Mr. Mason's exceptional and unmatched contribution to the field of meteorology and to the development of Antigua and Barbuda. Cabinet further recognised the enduring legacy of Mr. Roberts as a philanthropist, contractor and dedicated supporter of culture and sports, whose contributions significantly shaped the nation.
