Government to settle with service providers

People still owed monies for services provided on contract with government for Carnival 2017, should expect some payment within a week.
That is according to Daryll Matthew, festivals minister, who spoke on OBSERVER AM yesterday.
While he was careful not to reveal the amount that is still owed, the newly-appointed minister said that he requested the information from the National Festivals Commission and was provided with a list of the various service providers.
He also said that the Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has approved an undisclosed sum of monies and a strategy is in place to guide the process.
“There are some persons with whom we may need to speak to ask for some consideration for a portion of the debt, but at the end of the day, if it is a legitimate debt, it has to be paid. I have been speaking with some of the service providers and they have been very patient and understanding,” Matthew said.
Over the past few years, members of the mas’ and pan association, as well as other service providers, have complained bitterly about government’s late payment and its negative impact on their productions.
The official launch of Antigua’s Carnival will take place on Saturday at 2 p.m. on Independence Avenue. The launch will be followed by a party featuring performances from a host of local entertainers.
The 2018 festival will run from Friday July 27th to Tuesday August 7th, under the theme “Revel in Greatness.” The new minister said no major changes will be made to the 2018 line-up of activities.