ALP calls for amnesty

The main opposition Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ALP) has called for the government to declare a six month amnesty to allow all CARICOM nationals residing in Antigua and Barbuda illegally to regularise their status.



Opposition leader, Lester Bird wants the amnesty to be given to CARICOM, as well as other nationals, who have been residing in the country for the past three years or more.



Bird, a former prime minister, is urging the Baldwin Spencer administration to declare the amnesty immediately and consult widely on a proper immigration policy.



He pointed out that the CARICOM nationals contribute to the country’s economy and warned that if such funds are taken out of circulation, many businesses could collapse, leading to a decline in government revenue and the economy.