Cabinet commenced its sitting on Thursday, June 4th, with a devotional reflection led by Rev. George Delpesche of the Beacon Light Church of the Nazarene. Drawing from Proverbs 3, he encouraged members to allow mercy and truth to guide their actions and decisions, reminding them that godly leadership is rooted in wisdom, integrity, and faithfulness.

Referencing Deuteronomy 17:18-20, Rev. Delpesche reflected on the responsibilities of those entrusted with authority, emphasising that all authority ultimately comes from God and should be exercised with humility and a sincere commitment to justice and service. He urged Cabinet members to govern with courage, seek wisdom in the conduct of public affairs, and emulate the faith and steadfastness of biblical leaders such as King David. He offered prayers for the Cabinet, asking that God grant its members wisdom, discernment, courage, good health, and long life as they discharge their duties, and also prayed for their families in recognition of the sacrifices they make in support of national service.

**DIGITAL APP TO TACKLE CHILD MAINTENANCE CRISIS**

Cabinet has expressed full support for the introduction of a new digital application, Main Collect, designed to significantly improve the collection and disbursement of child maintenance payments throughout Antigua and Barbuda and, eventually, across the OECS.

Cabinet received a presentation from the Registrar of the Family Court, Fanella Francis; Crown Counsel, Allicia Aska; and a local digital application developer on ongoing efforts by the Family Court to address longstanding challenges associated with the payment and collection of child maintenance. Between 1,500 and 2,500 fathers are currently listed on the Court's records as having child maintenance obligations, with the growing volume of outstanding payments placing significant financial hardship on mothers, guardians, and the children who depend on such support.

The Main Collect application is an innovative digital platform expected to be fully operational within the next six months. It has already received the approval of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court and is expected to be rolled out across OECS member states. The platform will allow fathers to make payments electronically while enabling mothers and guardians to access and monitor those payments in a secure and efficient manner. The system will also provide the Court with real-time data on payments made, outstanding balances, compliance rates, and other critical information necessary for the effective administration of child maintenance matters.

Cabinet welcomed the initiative as an important step toward improving accountability, reducing payment delinquency, and ensuring that children receive the financial support to which they are entitled. Members commended the Family Court and its partners for embracing technology to address a longstanding social challenge.

The discussion also explored complementary measures aimed at strengthening compliance with child maintenance orders. Options considered included legislative amendments to provide stronger enforcement mechanisms — among them the possibility of incarceration for persistent defaulters — the establishment of a register of delinquent fathers, and enhanced collaboration with employers to facilitate salary deductions for individuals who repeatedly fail to meet their maintenance obligations.

Cabinet recognised that while technological solutions such as Main Collect will greatly improve administration and monitoring, a comprehensive approach involving legislative, administrative, and societal support may also be necessary to address chronic non-compliance. Cabinet reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the welfare and best interests of children and pledged continued support for initiatives that strengthen family responsibility.

**FISHERIES COMPLEXES PLACED UNDER ANTIGUA FISHERIES LIMITED**

Cabinet has approved a new management structure for the fisheries complexes in Antigua and Barbuda, aimed at improving operational efficiency, strengthening accountability, and enhancing services to fishers and the wider public.

Following a review of current conditions and management arrangements at facilities in Point, Parham, and Urlings in Antigua, as well as the fisheries facilities in Barbuda, Cabinet agreed that all fisheries complexes should be placed under the responsibility of Antigua Fisheries Limited. The decision is intended to ensure a more coordinated and professional approach to the administration, maintenance, and development of these facilities.

Cabinet noted that Antigua Fisheries Limited possesses the experience and institutional capacity necessary to oversee operations and implement measures that will improve service delivery to fishers, vendors, and other stakeholders within the fishing industry.

As part of the new governance arrangement, Cabinet approved the establishment of a new Board of Directors to provide oversight and strategic direction for Antigua Fisheries Limited. The Board will be chaired by Mr. Hassett Julian and will comprise Ms. Rakosha James, Ms. Carlene Pryce, Mr. Franklin James, Mr. Lyndon Greene, and Ms. Ziah Fritz.

Cabinet expressed confidence that the new management structure will contribute to the modernisation and sustainable development of the fisheries sector, while ensuring that the complexes remain well-maintained, financially viable, and responsive to the needs of fishing communities. The Government reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the growth of the fisheries industry as an important contributor to food security, employment, and economic development.

**FORT JAMES BEACH REDEVELOPMENT APPROVED**

Cabinet has approved a comprehensive plan for the redevelopment and enhancement of the Fort James Beach area, following a review of a long-standing proposal submitted by Royal Caribbean for the development of the site into a themed attraction.

After extensive discussions, Cabinet concluded that the Government of Antigua and Barbuda, working in close collaboration with local stakeholders, will undertake the development of the Fort James Beach area in a manner that preserves its historical significance, enhances its natural beauty, and maximises economic opportunities for Antiguans and Barbudans.

Cabinet noted that Fort James remains one of the country's most important historical and cultural assets and holds significant untapped potential as a tourism and recreational destination. The approved development concept seeks to transform the area into a vibrant heritage and leisure attraction while ensuring broad participation by local entrepreneurs and community stakeholders.

The project will include the installation of groynes and beach replenishment works to protect and enhance the shoreline.