safety steps

𝗝𝗢𝗜𝗡 𝗢𝗨𝗥 𝗪𝗛𝗔𝗧𝗦𝗔𝗣𝗣 𝗖𝗛𝗔𝗡𝗡𝗘𝗟! 𝗖𝗟𝗜𝗖𝗞 𝗢𝗡 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗟𝗜𝗡𝗞: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaN7nmQGOj9na4QhBa12

The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has announced a zero-tolerance approach to littering and the illegal occupation of public spaces, as Government intensifies efforts to improve the cleanliness, safety and appearance of communities throughout the country.

Cabinet determined that stronger enforcement measures are necessary to address indiscriminate dumping, abandoned and derelict vehicles, and the unauthorised occupation of beaches, roadsides and other public spaces.

Effective immediately, the Ministry of Social Transformation, working in collaboration with the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda, the National Solid Waste Management Authority and the Development Control Authority, will commence an intensified programme to identify and remove derelict and abandoned vehicles from communities across the State.

Cabinet noted that abandoned vehicles are not only unsightly but can create environmental and public-safety concerns and negatively affect the appearance of communities.

Owners of derelict vehicles are therefore encouraged to take immediate steps to have them removed from public spaces. Government agencies have been instructed to enforce the relevant laws and procedures governing their removal.

Cabinet also announced that the Government will move to increase the penalty for littering to EC$5,000 and will take the necessary legislative steps to give effect to the measure.”

In an effort to encourage greater public participation in identifying offenders, Cabinet further agreed that 50 percent of the fine collected will be paid to persons whose information, provided through the Police Tip Line, leads to the successful identification and prosecution of persons engaged in littering.

The initiative is intended to send a clear message that the indiscriminate disposal of garbage and other waste will no longer be tolerated.

Cabinet is encouraging citizens and residents who witness acts of illegal dumping and littering to utilise the Police Tip Line and provide information that can assist the authorities in taking action against offenders.

The Ministry of Social Transformation has also been directed to take the necessary action to address the unauthorised occupation of beaches and roadsides.

Cabinet agreed that persons squatting or unlawfully occupying these public spaces will be required to remove their structures and belongings, with the Ministry taking appropriate action where necessary.

Government emphasised that the country’s beaches must remain accessible for the enjoyment of citizens, residents, and visitors and that roadsides and other public areas must not be occupied in ways that create hazards, obstruct access, or contribute to unsightly conditions.

Cabinet underscored that Government will continue to provide the resources necessary for national clean-up and beautification efforts but stressed that keeping Antigua and Barbuda clean is a shared responsibility.

The Cabinet is therefore calling upon households, businesses, motorists, and communities to dispose of waste responsibly and to refrain from dumping unwanted appliances, vehicles, construction material, and household waste along roadsides, on vacant lands, at beaches, or in other unauthorised areas.

The Government will combine public education, community clean-up initiatives, and stronger enforcement to bring about a lasting improvement in the physical environment.

Cabinet reaffirmed that there will be zero tolerance for littering and illegal dumping and called on all citizens and residents to join the national effort to keep Antigua and Barbuda clean, safe, and beautiful.