By Azara Lavia
The Member of Parliament for St Mary’s South, Kelvin Simon, is rejecting claims that he is opposed to progress or infrastructural development in the constituency, while calling the recent announcement regarding the activation of air conditioning units at Urlings Primary School an example of political desperation.
During a town hall meeting hosted by the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP), hosted by Prime Minister Gaston Browne, Education Minister Daryll Matthew, and Senator Dwayne George, Simon raised concerns about the state of development in the constituency.
His comments focused on the non-functioning air conditioning units at Urlings Primary School, which had been installed 18 months ago but remained out of service, contrary to what was being presented at the meeting.
Simon, who visited the school on Wednesday, posted a video showing workmen repairing the air conditioning units. He explained, “These are the AC units here at the back of the classroom, and as you can see, none of them are working. Windows are open, classes are in session, and fans are on full blast. Technicians are here trying to get them up and running.”
The MP continued, “This is what’s happening at Urlings Primary School. We were told all AC units were functioning, which was a blatant lie. I’m here to provide evidence. The technicians are working, the classrooms are open, but the AC units are still not on. This is what’s happening at the school”.
Simon’s video prompted a response from Senator Dwayne George, who issued a press release stating that the AC units in the southern wing of Urlings Primary School were now fully operational, following the completion of a comprehensive rewiring project.
He emphasised that this upgrade provides a more comfortable learning environment for both students and staff and is part of a wider effort to improve school infrastructure across Antigua and Barbuda.
While dismissing Simon’s claims as misinformation, George also noted that similar upgrades were underway in the northern wing of the school. He reiterated that the government was committed to enhancing educational facilities nationwide.
However, Simon responded in a press release, accusing the government of using the installation of the AC units as a “cheap attempt” to cover up its failures.
He said that only after significant public pressure that the government took action to address the issue, saying, “What they couldn’t accomplish in 18 months, they’re now rushing to complete because I’m putting pressure on them and exposing their negligence.”
Simon also criticised the government’s handling of the situation, saying, “There’s no need for political games. I’m calling on the ABLP to stop the deflection, half-truths, and be transparent. They need to deliver on their promises and get the job done. St Mary’s South deserves better, and I remain committed to fighting for real progress and accountable governance.”
