Local News
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Nation Mourns Tourism Pioneer Theodore 'Ted' Isaac, CM
Tourism Minister Hon. H. Charles Fernandez and the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority are mourning the passing of Theodore "Ted" Isaac, CM, a pioneering figure who spent more than four decades shaping the nation's tourism industry. Isaac was the first Chairman of the Tourism Authority Board and the first indigenous Antiguan to chair the Hotels and Tourism Association.
Antigua and Barbuda Eyes Data Embassies at Regional Digital Resilience Workshop
Antigua and Barbuda is participating in a UN ECLAC-hosted workshop in Belize focused on strengthening digital resilience across the Caribbean, with discussions centred on the implementation of data embassies to safeguard critical government data and services.
Antigua's Analytical Services Director Joins Regional Food Safety Talks in Barbados
Dr. Linroy Christian, Director of Antigua and Barbuda's Department of Analytical Services, attended a two-day regional meeting in Bridgetown, Barbados, focused on strengthening Caribbean laboratory testing and food safety systems under the EU Food Security Programme.
Freeland: Sports Tourism a Key Driver of Antigua and Barbuda's Economic Growth
Minister of State Michael Freeland says sports tourism — anchored by events such as drag racing and cricket — has the potential to become a major driver of Antigua and Barbuda's economy, generating revenue across multiple industries while boosting visitor arrivals during slower tourism months.
Education Minister Urges Grade 6 Students to Show Confidence in National Assessments
Education Minister Daryll Matthew has offered words of encouragement to Grade 6 students across Antigua and Barbuda as they sit their two-day National Assessments. The minister urged students to approach the exams with confidence, perseverance, and belief in their own abilities.
Ex-Police Commissioner Demands Transparency Over Dropped Cannabis Case, Raises Shooting Concerns
Former police commissioner and attorney-at-law Wendell Alexander is demanding greater transparency from the Director of Public Prosecutions over the discontinuation of a major cannabis importation case, while also raising procedural concerns about the police-involved shooting death of 18-year-old Khaleel Simon.
Letter: Antiguan Mother Urges PM Browne to Reject All US Deportees
A St. John's resident has written an open letter urging Prime Minister Gaston Browne to reject all US deportees, arguing that Antigua and Barbuda's small size and existing social pressures make any such arrangement an unacceptable risk to public safety. The letter raises concerns about the unresolved status of background checks as negotiations continue.
Commentary: Patriotism or Xenophobia? Writer Challenges Use of Term to Silence Immigration Debate
A commentary published by Antigua News Room argues that the term "xenophobia" is being weaponised to shut down legitimate debate over immigration policy, alleging that the government is exploiting Caribbean migrants to maintain political power.
Deportee Talks Between Antigua and U.S. Stall Over Numbers and Security Concerns
Negotiations between Antigua and Barbuda and the United States over the acceptance of deported third-country nationals have stalled after the U.S. reportedly proposed sending up to 120 individuals — far exceeding the 10-person annual limit Antigua agreed to. Prime Minister Gaston Browne says his government will not accept any arrangement that threatens national security, while Ambassador Sir Ronald Sanders has been directed to seek clarification from the U.S. State Department.
Caribbean Fisheries Brace for 2026 Hurricane Season Amid El Niño Uncertainty
Caribbean fisheries and aquaculture stakeholders are navigating the 2026 Atlantic Hurricane Season amid added uncertainty from El Niño, which may suppress storm activity but poses its own threats to coral reefs and fish stocks. CRFM Executive Director Dr. Marc Williams is calling on the region to prioritise preparedness as a permanent cornerstone of fisheries development strategy.
Loan Officer Takes Community First Credit Union to Industrial Court Over Dismissal
A former loan officer has taken Community First Co-Operative Credit Union to the Industrial Court, alleging she was summarily dismissed without due process after a medical emergency prevented her from returning from approved overseas leave. The case has sparked public debate after an industrial relations consultant publicly condemned the termination on social media.
Abigail Piper to Carry Antigua and Barbuda's Flag at Miss Caribbean Universe 2026
Abigail Piper, a 27-year-old accountant and performing arts advocate, will represent Antigua and Barbuda at the Miss Caribbean Universe 2026 pageant on June 13 in St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands. Piper, who recently led a financial literacy tour of primary schools, brings over a decade of pageant experience and a record of academic distinction to the regional competition.
Urban Renewal Minister Demolishes Sidewalk Obstruction on Popeshead Street
Urban Renewal Minister Rawdon Turner has overseen the demolition of a set of steps that had long obstructed the sidewalk on Popeshead Street, forcing pedestrians into traffic. The removal is intended to improve pedestrian safety along the busy St. John's thoroughfare.
Antigua and Barbuda Takes Title Sponsorship of CTO Women in Tourism Leadership Awards
Antigua and Barbuda served as title sponsor of the Caribbean Tourism Organization's Women in Tourism Leadership Dinner and Awards during Caribbean Week in New York, with Tourism Minister Charles Fernandez delivering remarks and the CTO Foundation launching a new scholarship initiative for aspiring female tourism professionals.
Health Minister Pushes for Data-Driven Fight Against Rising Kidney Disease
Health Minister Michael Joseph is urging a research-driven response to a notable rise in kidney disease cases in Antigua and Barbuda, citing diet, medication use and lifestyle as possible contributing factors. The Ministry of Health is partnering with regional organisations, including PAHO, to expand data collection and guide evidence-based health policy.
ABAA to Stage National Track and Field Championships at YASCO on June 20-21
The Antigua and Barbuda Athletic Association will host its 2026 National Track and Field Championships at the YASCO Sports Complex on June 20 and 21, with competition beginning at 3 p.m. each day. Admission is $20 for adults and $10 for children, with reserved seating also available.
Indian Navy Training Ship Departs Antigua After Four-Day Goodwill Visit
The Indian Navy sail training ship INS Sudarshini has departed Antigua and Barbuda after a four-day port call under the Lokayan 26 expedition, during which it hosted Prime Minister Gaston Browne and held defence exchanges with local military officials. The ship is now bound for the United States to join celebrations marking 250 years of American independence.
Antigua and Barbuda Highlights Tourism Growth at Caribbean Week in New York
Antigua and Barbuda showcased strong growth in visitor arrivals and expanding international market interest on the opening day of the Caribbean Tourism Organization's Caribbean Week in New York. Tourism Minister Charles Fernandez led the national delegation at the annual regional event.
Antigua and Barbuda Set to Field 13-Member Squad at Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games
The Antigua and Barbuda Commonwealth Games Association has confirmed a 13-member squad will compete in Glasgow, Scotland, from 23 July to 2 August 2026, spanning Athletics, Boxing, Track Cycling, and Swimming. Karen Joseph, a former national netball star, has been appointed Chef de Mission to lead the delegation.
Overnight Detour in Effect on All Saints Road Starting June 2
The Ministry of Works has announced an overnight detour on All Saints Road between Buckley Line Roundabout and Herberts Junction, effective from 7:00 pm on June 2, 2026, as part of the ongoing All Saints Road Project.