Politics
1778 articles
Worker Calls for Fairness in Backpay Eligibility After Years on Government Programme
A government employee who spent three years on the Labour Department's Work Experience Programme before being permanently hired in 2022 says they have been deemed ineligible for backpay, despite the Government indicating that workers hired between 2018 and 2023 qualify for compensation. The worker is calling on authorities to review the criteria and recognise the contributions of those in similar situations.
Novo Banco Bondholders Dealt Major Blow as Portugal's Top Court Rejects Pilot Appeal
Portugal's Supreme Administrative Court has rejected a pilot appeal by Novo Banco bondholders challenging the 2015 transfer of nearly EUR2 billion in senior bonds back to the failed Banco Espirito Santo, and declined to refer the case to the EU's top court, according to Antigua.news. The ruling sets a difficult precedent for other pending investor claims in one of Europe's most contested post-crisis bank resolution disputes.
US to Revoke Passports of Americans with Unpaid Child Support Debt
The US State Department has announced it will revoke the passports of Americans owing more than $2,500 in unpaid child support, expanding enforcement of a rarely applied 1996 federal law. Those affected will be ineligible for a new passport until their debt is fully paid.
US State Department: Child Support Debt Over $2,500 Can Block or Revoke Passport
The US State Department is warning Americans that unpaid child support debt exceeding $2,500 can result in denial or revocation of a US passport. As reported by Antigua.news, individuals must fully clear outstanding obligations before becoming eligible for passport services.
Hantavirus Risk Remains Low in Antigua and Barbuda, Ministry Says
The Ministry of Health says the risk of hantavirus in Antigua and Barbuda remains low following a cruise ship outbreak in the Central Atlantic that has killed three people and produced eight cases. Surveillance has been heightened at ports of entry and within the cruise sector.
New Antigua and Barbuda Cabinet Dismisses PM's Retirement Talk
Antigua and Barbuda's newly formed Cabinet has rallied against Prime Minister Gaston Browne's reported musings about leaving office, urging him to remain in his leadership role. The pushback signals a united front within the governing administration.
Greene: UPP Cannot Win Another Election While Isaac Remains Chairman
Political figure Greene has declared that the UPP can never win another election with Isaac serving as chairman, raising fresh questions about the opposition party's leadership. The remarks signal deepening tensions surrounding the party's direction and electoral viability.
Greene Claims UPP Senate Selections Reveal Opposition's Lack of Fresh Talent
A government official identified as Greene has criticized the UPP's Senate appointments, claiming the opposition has run out of new faces and is failing to develop fresh political talent. The remarks highlight continued friction between Antigua and Barbuda's ruling party and the opposition.
Greene Credits ABLP's Record of Delivery for Landslide Election Victory
ABLP chairman E. P. Chet Greene says the party's 15-of-17 seat election victory on April 30 reflected voter confidence in Prime Minister Gaston Browne's leadership and the party's record of fulfilling its manifesto promises. Greene argued the UPP failed to offer a convincing alternative, with voters choosing proven governance over what he described as political gimmicks.
Parliament Opening and Swearing-In Dates Set for May
Attorney General Steadroy Benjamin has announced that Parliament's Lower House will convene on May 18 for swearing-in ceremonies, with the Senate following on May 20 and the Governor General's Throne Speech set for May 26.
Treasury Processing Back Pay for Public Servants Across Key Ministries
The Treasury Department is processing retroactive salary payments for public sector workers across multiple government ministries and departments, with a further update expected on May 15.
Shaquan O'Neil Makes History as Youngest Senator in Antigua and Barbuda
Shaquan O'Neil has been sworn in as a Government Senator, becoming the youngest person to hold the position in Antigua and Barbuda's history. The National Youth Parliament Association has praised the appointment, citing his dedication to youth development and public service.
Letter: Young Senate Appointments Spark Hope for Antigua and Barbuda's Future
A member of the public has written to commend Prime Minister Gaston Browne and the ABLP for appointing several young and first-time senators to the Upper House, calling the move a symbol of hope and youth empowerment for Antigua and Barbuda.
Governor General Urges Newly Sworn Senators to Lead with Integrity, Not Ceremony
Governor General Sir Rodney Williams addressed newly sworn senators at Government House, urging them to move beyond ceremonial duties and approach their legislative responsibilities with integrity, diligence, and a long-term commitment to the nation's welfare.
Williams-Grant Set for Senate Presidency as New Government Senators Are Sworn In
Ten government senators were sworn in at Government House on Friday, with Senator Alincia Williams-Grant expected to be nominated as Senate President when the Upper House convenes on May 20. Philip Shoul and Shenella Govia are set to fill the roles of Deputy President and Leader of Government Business respectively.
Greene Warns New Senators: Upper House Must Not Become a 'Rubber Stamp'
Foreign Affairs Minister E.P. Chet Greene called on newly sworn-in senators to take their roles seriously, warning that the Upper House must not function as a ceremonial 'rubber stamp' chamber. Greene delivered the message on behalf of Prime Minister Gaston Browne at Friday's swearing-in ceremony.
New Senator Abena St. Luce Pledges to Champion Youth Mentorship and Women's Leadership
Newly sworn-in Senator Abena St. Luce has pledged to use her seat in Antigua and Barbuda's Upper House to advocate for youth mentorship and greater female leadership. St. Luce, appointed following the April 30 general election, described her swearing-in as emotional, noting her ailing father was unable to attend the ceremony.
Newton Returns to Senate After Election Defeat, Pledges Focus on Education
Senator Lamin Newton, reappointed to the Senate following his defeat in the April 30 general election, says he is focused on the future and plans to prioritise education and scholarship opportunities during the new parliamentary term. He is expected to take his seat when the Senate convenes on May 20.
At 22, New Senator Shaquan O'Neil Vows to Champion Youth Voice in Upper House
Twenty-two-year-old Shaquan O'Neil, one of Antigua and Barbuda's youngest senators, says he views his appointment to the Upper House as a responsibility to champion youth inclusion, tackle unemployment, and advance civic participation among young people nationwide.
Williams-Grant Set for Fourth Term as Senate President, Vows to Strengthen Parliament
Senator Alincia Williams-Grant is set to begin her fourth term as President of the Senate, pledging to boost public understanding of Parliament, push for greater legislative autonomy, and guide a new generation of senators entering the Upper House.