Chamber of Commerce set to host meetings to tackle security and safety issues

The Antigua and Barbuda Chamber of Commerce is planning to take steps in ensuring the safety of its members.

The move comes after the heartbreaking murder of local businessman Charlie Barnes who was shot and killed in front of his home in Ottos New Town a few days ago.

It also follows a rise in cases of robberies including businesspersons or their customers.

Executive Director of the group Martin Cave made the announcement during a recent interview on Observer Media.

He explained that they are planning to stage a meeting to discuss their concerns, to ensure the safety of businesses. Following that meeting, these suggestions will then be submitted to the relevant authorities.

“We need to have a meeting of all membership to understand exactly how the business community has been impacted by the proliferation of crime that we see happening through the length and breadth of this country and it’s not just going to be a talk shop.

“We’re hoping to have some concrete solutions that we can present to the authorities and say was this tried? Or can we do this together? Can we work in concert to address the scourge that we have? We think that it is time that we approach the government with plans. So, once we can meet and come up with some suggestions and perhaps look at a holistic solution to this, we think that there should be some progress towards getting, as I said, a solution, some resolution to what we’re having now,” Cave explained.

Director Celia Samuel is suggesting that more patrols need to take place, more cameras need to be installed in public spaces, and more conversations need to take place to tackle this growing issue as at this time because “we do not feel safe”.

Just a few days ago, government announced plans to install a new surveillance system across the island in a bid to tackle rising crime.

Prime Minister Gaston Browne confirmed that negotiations with providers have been ongoing for several weeks and are now nearing completion.

In the first phase of the project, approximately 200 surveillance systems will be installed at strategic locations.

The move comes as the nation grapples with a recent surge in criminal activity.

Both Samuel and Cave welcomed the news.