AGP Executive Report

Diplomacy Appointment: Attorneys Joanne Massiah and Samantha Marshall were sworn in as Antigua and Barbuda’s Ambassadors-at-Large, tasked with special assignments and representing the country across regional and international forums. Language Debate: A radio panel says Antigua and Barbuda has no declared official language, warning that making Spanish a second official language could bring major social and political knock-on effects. Regional Finance Push: Prime Minister Gaston Browne urged the UN to implement the Multidimensional Vulnerability Index immediately, arguing island states like Antigua and Barbuda are still being short-changed by outdated financing rules. Drug Case: Nearly 60 pounds of suspected cannabis were seized at V.C. Bird International Airport, with a 54-year-old pastor assisting police as investigations continue. Community & Culture: The Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission wrapped up a Music Development Masterclass, while Carnival City’s biggest stage build is moving into its next enhancement phase. Sports: West Indies clinched the T20 series over Sri Lanka with a dramatic five-wicket win, with Antigua set to host the next two-test series starting June 25.

Language Policy Debate: Two panellists say Antigua and Barbuda has no declared official language, warning that making Spanish official could bring major social and political consequences. AI Ethics: Pope Leo XIV’s new encyclical warns that building an AI future that excludes God risks “dehumanization,” urging people to protect human dignity. Carnival Infrastructure: The Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission says Carnival City’s stage and roof are complete, with the next phase focused on upgrading the venue experience. Tourism & Resorts: PM Gaston Browne says Sandals will pay $6.5 million in a tax settlement as it plans a major expansion at Sandals Grande Antigua, including new overwater bungalows placed toward the groyne to protect beach access. Public Safety: Police seized nearly 60 pounds of suspected cannabis at V.C. Bird International Airport, arresting a US citizen for questioning. Youth & Education: AUA College of Arts and Sciences confirms a second free doctor-bootcamp for July, while Education Director Clare Browne tells CSEC awardees their success should shape the nation’s future. Sports: West Indies clinched the T20I series over Sri Lanka with a dramatic five-wicket decider win in Jamaica.

Court & Public Accountability: PM Gaston Browne says the DPP should explain controversial prosecutorial decisions to maintain public confidence, arguing independence isn’t immunity from public accountability. Tourism & Investment: Browne says Sandals will pay the government $6.5 million in a tax settlement as it pushes a major expansion at Sandals Grande Antigua, including 100+ new rooms and about 16 overwater bungalows—positioned toward the groyne so Dickenson Bay stays accessible. Local Development: Construction is underway at Willoughby Bay on a new high-end residential tourism project tied to the Citizenship by Investment programme. Housing & Planning: Cabinet has earmarked Perry Bay for a housing and marina development after agreeing to survey about 13 acres. Land & Enforcement: Government warns illegal structures in Barbuda could face demolition, reiterating the Barbuda Council has no legal authority to dispose of land. Public Safety: Police are investigating the death of senior surgeon Dr. Subbiah Radhakrishnan, found unresponsive outside his Belmont home; no cause has been confirmed. Crime Update: A pastor is assisting police after nearly 60 pounds of suspected cannabis were seized at V.C. Bird International Airport; he’s expected to be charged. Sports & Community: Antigua’s Carnival preparations continue with a new grand stage at the ARG and sound upgrades planned for Carnival 2026.

Police Probe: Senior surgeon Dr. Subbiah Radhakrishnan (Dr. Krishnan) was found unresponsive outside his Belmont home and police have launched an investigation; no cause of death has been confirmed. Justice & Governance: PM Gaston Browne says the DPP should explain controversial prosecutorial decisions to maintain public confidence, arguing independence isn’t immunity. UWI Expansion: Browne says about 130 people have signed up for the new UWI Five Islands law programme and proposes expanding a windfall tax to fund education. Tourism & Investment: Sandals will pay a $6.5m tax settlement as it plans a major expansion; Browne also says Jolly Beach will get a $13.5m upgrade and that Club Med and TUI are interested in acquiring the resort. Local Development: Construction is underway at Willoughby Bay; government plans a new Perry Bay housing-and-marina project and warns illegal Barbuda structures could be demolished. Public Safety & Community: Urlings fisherman is recovering after a shark attack; Keeling Point pier is set for full rebuild; Hopeful Hearts ran a successful food and clothing drive. Missing Teen: Deshawn James has been found safe.

Work Permits Tightened: Cabinet says employers must show genuine efforts to recruit qualified Antiguans and Barbudans before foreign workers get permits, with the One Stop Employment Centre continuing to match job seekers to vacancies. Barbuda Land Enforcement: Government warns unauthorized structures in Barbuda could be demolished, reiterating the Barbuda Council has no legal authority to sell or dispose of land. Perry Bay Development: Plans move ahead to survey about 13 acres for a mixed project including condominium-style housing and a marina, building on the wider housing programme. CHOGM Youth Forum: Twenty-three young people selected for an international taskforce to plan the 2026 Commonwealth Youth Forum in Antigua (1–4 Nov) alongside the Commonwealth Secretariat and Youth Council. Carnival Upgrades at ARG: A larger new grand stage is being installed at the Antigua Recreation Ground, with sound system improvements planned for Carnival 2026. Tourism Inclusion: Two resorts publicly reaffirm Pride Month inclusivity, welcoming LGBTQIA+ travellers and stressing “belonging” as part of hospitality. Community & Health: Tributes continue after the death of surgeon Dr. Subbiah Radhakrishnan, with condolences from the medical fraternity and health officials.

LGBTQIA+ Tourism Push: Pineapple Beach Club Antigua and The Verandah Resort and Spa publicly reaffirm Pride Month inclusivity, telling LGBTQIA+ travellers they’ll feel “at ease” and “valued” from the moment they book. Student Wins: Kaylei John-Baptiste topped the 40th National CSEC Awards, urging peers to treat honours as a “floor” not a “ceiling,” while other students were recognised across Platinum, Gold, Silver and Bronze categories. Youth for CHOGM: Twenty-three young people were selected for the 2026 Commonwealth Youth Forum international taskforce, to help shape the programme and recommendations in Antigua (1–4 Nov). Work Permits Focus: Cabinet says the work permit system must prioritise hiring qualified Antiguans and Barbudans first, with the One Stop Employment Centre matching job seekers to vacancies. Health & Safety Loss: Police are investigating the death of senior surgeon Dr. Subbiah Radhakrishnan (“Dr. Krishnan”), found unresponsive outside his Belmont home; tributes continue. Culture & Carnival: The Culture Department will train Soca and Calypso adjudicators on 20 June at the Harrison Centre to strengthen scoring integrity. Blue Economy Appointment: Dr. Deborah Brosnan named Special Envoy for Coastal Resilience and the Ocean Economy to advance climate adaptation and ocean projects.

Carnival Integrity Training: The Culture Department will host a Soca and Calypso adjudicators’ workshop on Saturday, June 20, with hands-on scoring, rubric use, bias awareness, and performance analysis at the Harrison Centre. Youth at CHOGM: Twenty-three young people have been selected for the 2026 Commonwealth Youth Forum taskforce, helping shape the programme and recommendations ahead of CHOGM in Antigua (Nov 1–4). Public Finance Pressure: Public servants say they’re still waiting on promised back pay after the April election, with retroactive salary and benefit adjustments tied to 2019–2023. Education Wins: Kaylei John-Baptiste topped the 40th National CSEC Awards, urging students to treat awards as a starting point. Health Concern: Families in the U.S. are paying up to $20,000 for unapproved stem cell autism treatments, despite FDA warnings—an issue making headlines regionally. Sports & Community: Village Netball results highlight Swetes/Roman Hill’s unbeaten run; the medical fraternity mourns surgeon Dr. Krishna’s sudden death. CHOGM Prep: Cabinet updates include steady CHOGM planning and a craft-sector branding workshop for CHOGM opportunities.

CHOGM 2026 Prep: Cabinet says preparations for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting are advancing steadily, with strong volunteer interest (800+ people) and 130+ delegation liaison officers already identified, alongside ongoing work on logistics, security, transport, and accommodation. Sports & Youth: Antigua and Barbuda’s U-20 men’s football team made history by qualifying for the CONCACAF Under-20 Championship in Mexico (July 24–Aug 9), and Cabinet pledged full support; in football news, the ABFA says top-tier action will return to the historic ARG on a September-to-December trial basis. Tourism & Culture: Antigua and Barbuda’s cuisine and culture were featured on BBC MasterChef’s finals week episode, filmed at Nelson’s Dockyard and Jumby Bay; meanwhile, two resorts publicly reaffirm LGBTQ+ welcome. Health & Food Policy: “Hope for the Future” held a community engagement drive on protecting children from unhealthy food marketing, linking schools and public health advocacy. Regional Trade: CARICOM trade ministers met in Georgetown for the 62nd COTED as global shocks keep pressure on prices and food security. Environment: Antigua and Barbuda is exploring Japanese technical help to turn sargassum into marketable products, with disposal flagged as the main hurdle. Education: The 40th National CSEC Awards honoured top performers, including Kaylei John-Baptiste as Student of the Year.

Work Permits Tightened: Cabinet is tightening work permit rules to give Antiguans and Barbudans first preference, with employers now required to prove vacancies were widely advertised across multiple local and state platforms. CHOGM Momentum: Preparations for CHOGM 2026 are advancing steadily, with strong international interest and hundreds of local volunteers and liaison officers already lined up. Craft Sector Gets CHOGM Boost: More than 20 craft workers are training on branding and marketing so they can compete on a global stage during the summit period. Tourism & Cruise Push: Antigua and Barbuda is positioning for stronger cruise growth as stakeholders are urged to raise service standards, while Rhapsody of the Seas continues adding port calls and off-season momentum. Sargassum Plan: Japan may provide technical support to turn sargassum into marketable products, tackling disposal challenges that create foul odours. Sports & Culture: ABFA says top-tier football returns to the historic ARG on a September-to-December trial basis, and the Queen of Carnival 2026 contestants were unveiled. Pageant Update: Abigail Piper’s Miss Caribbean Universe bid is paused due to visa issues, but she will represent Antigua and Barbuda at a different regional pageant in August. Labour Rights Warning: Union leaders are condemning “master-slave” style workplace dynamics, citing stress, discrimination, and harassment.

Cruise Tourism Boost: Royal Caribbean’s Rhapsody of the Seas starts its 2026 summer run with a first Port Zante call in St. Kitts, bringing about 2,360 passengers and kicking off nine scheduled visits that keep cruise activity strong during the off-season. CHOGM Sports Upgrade: Antigua and Barbuda officials inspected the Potters Playing Field redevelopment, with three hard courts (basketball, netball, volleyball) and covered seating for about 225 each, plus football/cricket field works aimed for completion ahead of CHOGM 2026. Barbuda Land Fight: The Barbuda Council rejects the government’s push for a land registry and land sales, saying “People’s land” is not for sale and warning the matter is before the courts. Missing Person Appeal: One year after Trinidadian Thomas Vasquez disappeared in Antigua, his mother says authorities have provided no updates and notes no missing persons alert was issued in Antigua. Public Health & Services: The National Archives says climate control repairs have reduced risk, but a leaking roof still keeps staff working from home; SLBMC also says some clinic and radiology appointments can now be requested online. Community & Safety: A “Ride for a Cause” backs cancer survivors; police investigate a shooting into a vehicle on Dickenson Bay Street; and a stolen Honda CR-V from Potters New Extension has been reported.

Health & Borders: Antigua and Barbuda is watching regional Ebola alerts closely after Trinidad and Tobago activated precautionary measures, advising people to avoid travel to affected countries and face enhanced screening on arrival. Regional Health & Living Standards: A UNDP report says Caribbean life expectancy gains are uneven, with Antigua and Barbuda among the longer-living countries, while healthy life expectancy remains under 70 across the region. Tourism & Visas: Dominica’s PM Skerrit declined to comment on the US visa non-renewal affecting CHTA president-elect Gregor Nassief, amid claims it may link to Antigua and Barbuda and Dominica travel restrictions tied to CBI screening. CHOGM Prep & Sustainability: Government ministers met Sustainable Markets Initiative representatives ahead of CHOGM 2026, flagging sewage treatment upgrades in St. John’s and plans for more accessible urban corridors. Healthcare Access: SLBMC is urging patients to request some outpatient clinic and radiology appointments online, 24/7. Sports & Youth: Antigua and Barbuda U20 players returned for CONCACAF Championship preparations, including an airport meeting with Syrian star Omar Al Somah. Public Safety: Police are investigating a masked gunman shooting into a vehicle on Dickenson Bay Street, and a Urlings fisherman remains hospitalized after a shark attack during spearfishing.

CHOGM Prep & Sustainability: A CHOGM mural featuring Sir Rodney Williams and Sir Vivian Richards was unveiled using recycled bottle caps, tying heritage to environmental action. Urban Development: Minister Rawdon Turner met Sustainable Markets Initiative reps ahead of CHOGM 2026, flagging sewage treatment upgrades in St. John’s and plans for more accessible, disability-friendly urban corridors. Health Access: Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre is urging patients to request some outpatient clinic and radiology appointments online, 24/7, to cut down on in-person steps. Sports Admin: The Ministry of Sports has closed its offices and moved staff to remote work until further notice. Public Safety: Police are investigating a masked gunman who fired into a vehicle on Dickenson Bay Street, injuring the occupant. Housing/Justice: Two Mack Pond residents, Kyle Taylor and Candace Sawyers, were remanded on a murder charge tied to Sheldon Dias’s death. Community & Education: The Blue Economy marked World Ocean Day with a school-focused campaign and mural, aiming to bring “Blue Economy” messages home to families. Tourism Marketing: Air Peace continues promoting Antigua and Barbuda to Nigerian travellers despite a setback.

Feeding Programme Boost: The Lions Club of Antigua, with Cool & Smooth Store, donated an EC$8,500 refrigerator to Zion Church of God to strengthen its long-running feeding programme, delivering 45+ lunches weekly. Blue Economy in Schools: Antigua’s Blue Economy marked World Ocean Day with a new mural campaign involving primary pupils, aiming to spread the message of ocean resources reaching households. CHOGM Prep Talks: Social and Urban Transformation Minister Rawdon Turner met Sustainable Markets Initiative reps on sewage treatment upgrades in St John’s, disability-friendly urban corridors, and CHOGM 2026 collaboration. Accreditation Fees Explained: ABNAB says accreditation service fees rose due to higher training costs, expanded responsibilities, and funding pressures. Centenarian Week Honours: PM Gaston Browne and Governor General Sir Rodney Williams visited the nation’s oldest centenarians, praising them as “living treasures.” Living Wage Reality Check: A panel warns a living wage is achievable but will take years, with costs likely landing on businesses and consumers. Local Crime Update: Kyle Taylor and Candace Sawyers were remanded on a murder charge linked to Sheldon Dias’ death. Work Notices: Night works are set for Newgate Street tonight, with heavy equipment and detours; motorists are also reminded of All Saints Road detours for major works. Tourism & Business: Browne says Elon Musk has shown interest in attending CHOGM’s Commonwealth Business Forum; construction has begun on the US$200m Long Bay Zen Resort.

Cricket & Local Sport: Cricket West Indies named a 15-member T20I squad for the three-match series against Sri Lanka in Jamaica (June 11–14), with Antigua’s Jewel Andrew and Ackeem Auguste plus all-rounder Shamar Springer recalled to the squad; Shai Hope captains, while Alzarri Joseph is rested for workload management ahead of the Tests in Antigua. Public Safety & Health: The Medical Association says more patients are showing heat-related dehydration symptoms, urging people—especially the elderly and those with limited mobility—to watch for warning signs like sudden headaches, blurred vision and fatigue. Justice & Drugs: Four men charged after a major Pares Village cannabis operation were granted EC$500,000 bail each, following the seizure of over 1,200 pounds of cannabis and plants valued at more than EC$3 million. Education Support: The American University of Antigua donated 20 whiteboards and flip charts to ABCAS, with much of it earmarked for the incoming School of Agriculture programme. Community & Environment: PABRO, with funding from the Antigua and Barbuda Environment Foundation, is tackling illegal dumping at Byams Wharf through cleanup and stronger monitoring. Disaster Preparedness: After a 6.4 quake near Cuba, authorities say there’s no tsunami threat to Antigua and Barbuda and no action is required.

Drug Enforcement: Four men—Rodwell McCurdy, Vincent Isaac, Garry Creighton and Javen Ryner—were charged after a June 4 raid near Pares Village uncovered more than 1,200 pounds of cannabis (plants and cured) worth over EC$3 million; each was granted EC$500,000 bail with strict reporting and no-contact conditions. Education & Agriculture: The American University of Antigua donated 20 whiteboards and flip charts to ABCAS, with supplies earmarked for the incoming School of Agriculture programme. Border Operations: Post Office and Customs are sending a cross-agency delegation to a regional summit in San Salvador to tighten workflows and improve international shipping and border security. CHOGM Momentum: Residents are being invited to add bottle caps to a CHOGM 2026 mural at the Antigua Recreation Grounds as officials build public engagement ahead of the summit. Health Watch: A medical official says more patients are presenting with heat-related dehydration symptoms as El Niño drives hotter conditions. Community & Environment: PABRO, with ABEF funding, is stepping up conservation work at Byams Wharf to tackle illegal dumping and protect a key biodiversity area. Utilities: APUA’s fuel variation rate rises again to 80 cents per kWh for June. Earthquake Update: After a 6.4 quake near Cuba, authorities say there’s no tsunami threat to Antigua and Barbuda. Sports: West Indies named Ackeem Auguste, Jewel Andrew and Shamar Springer for the T20I series vs Sri Lanka in Jamaica, with two Tests next in Antigua.

Tourism & Travel: Antigua Cruise Port is gearing up for a busy mid-year run, with Rhapsody of the Seas returning June 9 and more calls on June 17 and June 23, as the port expects 15+ ship visits from June to September. Sports & Youth: ABFA says Antigua and Barbuda’s U20 Concacaf Championship trip could cost about US$230,000, with medical and altitude support part of the plan; in netball, Tashana Bloomfield powered Defante Stingers to a third straight Village League win, while the U16 national team beat Willikies 26-6. Public Life & Community: Antigua mourns Sir Aziz Hadeed after his May 23 passing, with tributes highlighting his business leadership and long service to education and public causes; Good Humans 268’s CHOGM bottle-cap mural work continues at the ARG. Disaster Preparedness: CDEMA chief Elizabeth Riley praised Antigua and Barbuda’s new five-year resilience framework as a roadmap for protecting lives and livelihoods. Local Government: No parking is ordered on High Street between Cross Street and Temple Street during Performing Arts Centre construction, and two new preschool centres are planned for Judges Hill/New Winthorpes and Jennings. Climate Watch: The Met Office warns every month brings some hazard, with summer facing the heaviest risks.