UPP Protests Government’s Plans for Jolly Beach and Social Security (Photos by the United Progessive Party
Members of the United Progressive Party (UPP) and supporters gathered outside the Social Security Office on Monday to protest against the government’s decision to utilize 27 acres of prime beachfront land at Jolly Beach.
This plan is intended to settle part of a $330 million delinquent government bond owed to the Social Security Board. The bond in question was issued in 2010 under a previous administration and has remained non-performing for over a decade.
(photo by MyUPP)
The UPP has been vocally opposed to this move since it was first announced, raising concerns over the long-term implications for the community and the preservation of national assets.
Protesters urged the government to reconsider the decision, arguing that this land should be used to benefit the public rather than settle financial debts.
(photo by MyUPP)
Prime Minister Gaston Browne has defended his government’s actions, describing them as a bold and visionary initiative aimed at ensuring the long-term sustainability of Antigua and Barbuda’s National Social Security Scheme.
He says the redevelopment of the Jolly Beach Hotel is positioned as a strategic investment that will not only enhance the Social Security’s revenue base but also restore a vital national asset, create jobs, and boost tourism in the region.
The bond in question was issued in 2010 under a previous administration and has remained non-performing for over a decade.
Ok what is the plausible alternative. Why can’t we invest in our future….social security on its own is unsustainable. Tourism has been our life for 50+ years now. Foreign owned companies reaping the benefits why can’t we reap from our own hard work.
I might be a bit daft but isn’t Social Security being able to sustain itself through revenue obtained from being a main shareholder beneficial to the public as opposed to non performing Bonds? Someone please break down this protest “that the land should be used to benefit the public.” Cause if Social Security owns the land and the land brings in revenue and that revenue is used to pay pensioners isn’t that using the land for public benefit? Please someone help me understand…..
While the government defends its plan as a strategic investment to diversify Social Security’s portfolio, the UPP’s skepticism reflects a demand for greater accountability and perhaps alternative, less risky approaches.
Don’t worry we will make noise when the month end and cannot get our pension for months. We the citizen of Antigua and Barbuda stand up for nothing so guess what we fall for anything Hitler throws at us
I’m happy to see people turn out to let their voices be heard but I know for a fact this won’t change a thing
Why antigua.news didnt post the nasty comment the PM made about Pearl?