The Antigua and Barbuda Workers’ Union (ABWU) is deeply concerned with the Gaston Browne Administration’s arbitrarily planned decision to increase vehicle licensing fees.
This Machiavellian-style administration has repeatedly failed to engage stakeholders in meaningful consultation, opting instead to impose policies in a dictatorial and heavy-handed manner. This blatant disregard for dialogue with workers and citizens—the very people who will bear the brunt of this increase—is both reckless and unconscionable.
Moreover, this administration seems bent on the impoverishment of workers based on its economic policies over the past several years. Since its re-election to office, the Gaston Browne administration has been clawing away at the pay packets of ordinary people by increasing the Antigua and Barbuda Sales Tax (ABST) and raising Social Security contributions, all while allowing prices at the supermarkets to skyrocket.
This latest tax hike on vehicle licensing fees is a continuation of the Browne Administration’s unjust and oppressive treatment of the working class. The increased licensing fees will undoubtedly impact the transportation costs of goods which will inevitably be passed on to consumers—adding yet another burden on workers and their families.
Meanwhile, the Union continues to fight tirelessly to secure wage and salary increases for workers. Yet, it seems the Browne Administration is just as determined to strip citizens and residents of their disposable income through its relentless taxation.
What justification can the Gaston Browne Administration offer for this increase when it continues to squander millions on extravagant concerts and other unprofitable undertakings? These funds could have been far better utilised in addressing critical infrastructure projects, such as much-needed road repairs, which would provide lasting benefits to citizens and residents.
We call on the Browne Administration, on behalf of our members, to reconsider its position and engage in genuine social dialogue. We further call for the establishment of a tripartite partnership—including the government, employers, and the union—to develop a holistic approach to addressing the economic hardships affecting large segments of the population.
We urge all our members as well as all citizens and residents to hold the Browne Administration accountable for every dollar yielded from this proposed increase. We also urge the public to demand full transparency on the terms and conditions of the bond arrangement. What is the period of the arrangement? Will the tax increase be repealed upon maturity of the bond? These are questions residents would like to have answered.
The Antigua and Barbuda Workers’ Union remains steadfast in its commitment to advocating for fairness, transparency, and economic justice for all workers, citizens and residents. Again, we call on the Browne Administration to engage in meaningful dialogue and adopt a more responsible approach to governance—one that prioritises tripartite engagement over unilateral decision-making.
