Gov’t to import construction workers to address gap in labor market

By Aabigayle McIntosh

The government plans to import at least three dozen skilled workers from various Caribbean countries to help with major construction projects.

Prime Minister Gaston Browne discussed the issue on the “Browne and Browne Show” on Saturday, noting that there’s a significant labor shortage in the country.

“We have a shortage of construction workers, and just today, I spoke with Turner at National Housing. We may have to bring about 30 to 40 masons and another 30 to 40 carpenters. Otherwise, we cannot meet the demand for housing for our people through national construction alone,” Browne stated.

Browne emphasized that importing labor isn’t the preferred approach but is necessary given the current situation.

“We now have to employ individuals from across the region, probably as far as the Dominican Republic, and even Mexico for that matter. Our first option would be within Caricom, but we may have to go elsewhere to find skilled workers,” he said.

Since regaining government control, the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party has transformed the housing sector, making it more accessible and affordable for residents.

Land and housing are available through the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CHAPA) and the National Housing and Urban Renewal Company.