Minister Anthony Smith attends First Cabinet Meeting of the Gaston Browne Administration

Independent Member of the Parliament of Antigua and Barbuda, the Hon. Anthony Smith Jr., on Wednesday attended his first cabinet meeting under the leadership of Prime Minister Gaston Browne following his appointment as Minister of Agriculture, Land, Fisheries and the Blue Economy.

Prime Minister Browne welcomed Minister Smith to the Cabinet and noted that every member of the Cabinet participated in the decision to make him a Cabinet Member following his resignation from the Opposition United Progressive Party benches in parliament on Monday.

Prime Minister Browne noted that the new minister is among experienced members of the government and he can be assured of their full support.

“Everyone is committed to providing you with the type of mentoring that you will require.  You came into the Cabinet with the full consensus of everyone here.  We are happy to have you onboard and look forward to a productive relationship,” pointed out Prime Minister Browne.

Minister Smith thanked the Hon. Prime Minister and the members of the Cabinet for their confidence and outlined that he is grateful for the opportunity given to him.

“I want every member of this team to know that I am committed to the team and country.  I come from a private sector background where I have worked all my life and it’s my first time working in government, so I know I have a lot to learn.  I am here to listen and learn from all of you.”

Minister Anthony Smith will make his first appearance in the House of Representatives on Thursday as an Independent Member.  On Friday he will commence meetings with Heads of Department of the Ministry.