Government Mandates Disability Representation Within Taxi Associations

The Government of Antigua and Barbuda has moved to strengthen inclusion for persons living with disabilities by mandating representation within the nation’s taxi associations and ordering accessibility upgrades at the cruise port.

Prime Minister Gaston Browne announced the decision after concerns were raised that a member of the disability community had reportedly lost his job as a taxi operator due to his disability.

Under the new directive, taxi associations will be required to create space within their leadership or governance structures for representatives of the disability association—potentially two members—to ensure their voices are formally included in decision-making.

The Prime Minister has instructed Charles Fernandez, Minister of Tourism, to formally notify the Taxi Association of the government’s position and the steps to be taken to implement the mandate.

In addition to representation, Prime Minister Browne also ordered the installation of proper wheelchair-accessible ramps at the cruise port, aimed at improving mobility and access for persons living with disabilities.

The measures form part of the government’s broader commitment to equality, inclusion, and the protection of employment opportunities for all citizens, particularly within key sectors such as tourism and transportation.