The Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda will play a greater role in enforcing the country’s litter laws as Cabinet moves to tackle persistent littering and illegal dumping.

Cabinet has also agreed to review the Litter Act, provide cellphones to litter wardens and replace public waste bins in St. John’s.

The Manager of the National Solid Waste Management Authority and litter wardens assigned to the capital were invited to Cabinet to discuss the continuing problem.

The discussions focused on the need for more vigorous enforcement to keep St. John’s and communities across the country clean, orderly and attractive.

Cabinet called on litter wardens to redouble their efforts and make greater use of the enforcement powers already available under the law.

Police officers will provide additional support, including issuing tickets to people found littering. The enhanced cooperation is intended to ensure that the law is applied more consistently.

The proposed review of the Litter Act will examine the existing enforcement framework and identify amendments that could create stronger and more effective deterrents against littering and illegal dumping.

Cellphones will also be provided to litter wardens to improve field communication, coordination and the prompt reporting of violations.

Cabinet reiterated that trucks transporting garbage and other waste must be properly covered to prevent material from falling or blowing onto roads and public spaces.

The Government will also replace bins in St. John’s to improve the availability and appearance of public waste-disposal facilities.

Cabinet said adequate infrastructure and public education must accompany enforcement. Public awareness campaigns promoting responsible waste disposal will therefore continue and be intensified.

Further support will also be provided to advance the removal of derelict vehicles from roadsides and other public areas.

The Government said abandoned vehicles could create safety hazards, obstruct visibility and contribute to the deterioration of communities.

National clean-up and beautification activities have already included the removal of litter and bulky waste, the clearing of overgrown areas, the cleaning of drains and watercourses and improvements to public spaces.

Cabinet stressed that keeping Antigua and Barbuda clean cannot be the sole responsibility of the National Solid Waste Management Authority.

It called for greater cooperation from government agencies, businesses, residents and community organisations, while warning that people who deliberately litter or dump waste illegally must face the consequences.