Prime Minister Gaston Browne is willing to make space at the table for opposition supporters as he focused on the proposed allocation of plots at Pensioner’s Point for nationals to get involved in investment opportunities.
Speaking on the Browne and Browne show on Saturday, the prime minister reiterated a central point: government-owned land belongs to all citizens, regardless of political affiliation. He urged members of the opposition and their supporters not to shy away from seizing the investment opportunities simply because the initiative is spearheaded by the current administration.
In his words, it would be “total ignorance” for someone to turn down an empowering investment opportunity solely due to party lines. The Prime Minister emphasized that the development is structured to be inclusive—providing access not just to the wealthy or politically aligned but to all enterprising Antiguans and Barbudans, including those in the diaspora.
The Prime Minister also hinted at creative financing approaches to make participation more accessible. For instance, he encouraged the use of collateral such as existing properties—including commercial property in St. John’s—to secure funding for investment. In one candid moment, the Prime Minister directly engaged a caller, humorously suggesting she leverage her resources and urging others to adopt a proactive mindset.
The importance of engaging the diaspora was highlighted once again. Many Antiguans and Barbudans living in Canada, the United States, and elsewhere have the means and interest to invest—but often, they simply aren’t aware of the opportunities. The PM noted that, thus far, many of the investors showing interest in Pensioners Beach have been from the diaspora community. Still, he stressed that increased promotion is needed to fully engage this group.
Explaining the rationale behind the project’s structure, Prime Minister Browne said that rather than one large hotel development on 40 acres, only six acres have been designated for a hotel. The remainder of the land has been subdivided into individual lots. This decision reflects cultural preferences: while many are reluctant to buy shares in companies, they are far more eager to purchase land and build on it.
This model aligns well with the thriving Airbnb market. Approximately 35% of tourists in Antigua and Barbuda now opt to stay in Airbnb-style accommodations. In Jamaica, that figure reportedly climbs as high as 40–45%. The Prime Minister made it clear that these lots are not just residential but are meant to support the broader tourism ecosystem, contributing to national economic growth.
