Prime Minister Gaston Browne has acknowledged continuing difficulty attracting teachers and police officers to work in Barbuda, while arguing that the shortage should not be treated solely as a political issue.

The admission followed renewed concern from Barbuda MP Trevor Walker about teacher shortages at the island’s secondary school.

“In all fairness, it has been a challenge getting policemen and teachers to work in Barbuda,” Browne said. “They’re not generating a sufficient number of their own into those professions.”

Members of the radio panel suggested that the Barbuda Council and the island’s parliamentary representative should also assist in recruiting qualified personnel. Mathematics teachers were identified as particularly difficult to attract, although the panel noted that shortages affect both islands.

The discussion came as a new school-meals facility was being launched in Barbuda. According to the programme, the kitchen can produce up to 400 meals daily and is intended to provide students with two meals per day.

Browne welcomed cooperation on the initiative and said support for education and school nutrition should rise above party politics.