PM Orders Talks After Public Outcry Over National Parks Authority’s 1 a.m. Party Cut-Off
Prime Minister Gaston Browne has weighed in on mounting public criticism of the National Parks Authority’s early shut-off times for entertainment events, telling concerned citizens that their frustrations “are noted” and promising swift engagement to resolve the issue.
In a public response on social media, Browne said, “Your concerns are noted. I believe we have to find a happy medium here for everyone.” He added that he has instructed the Minister of Tourism to coordinate a stakeholder meeting “soonest to resolve the issue.”
The Prime Minister’s intervention follows a viral video showing a DJ at Abracadabra rallying partygoers after being ordered to end music at 1 a.m. The individual unleashed obscenities at the National Parks Authority, prompting fears among some viewers that the crowd could have escalated into unrest.
A letter from a concerned citizen described the incident as “very disappointing and angry,” accusing the DJ of behaviour that “could have been a riot” and comparing the incitement to the rhetoric that led to former U.S. President Donald Trump’s impeachment over the January 6 insurrection.
Despite the public outcry, no arrest has been made. The writer argued that the video “is still out there and he should be charged.”
The controversy has also reignited debate over how noise regulations are enforced. The Noise Abatement Act (1997) applies across Antigua and Barbuda, and, as the letter writer highlighted, “no entity except the Police can enforce this law.” Former Assistant Police Commissioner Albert Wade had recommended enforcing the law more consistently due to longstanding complaints from hotels and residents affected by late-night noise.
The writer expressed concern over reports that authorities were told to ease enforcement: “I now understand that the Prime Minister has given instructions that the Police and National Parks should back off and not enforce the Law of the Land. How is this possible?”
As event operators, residents, hoteliers and park authorities brace for the busy holiday season, Browne’s call for a stakeholder meeting signals that new guidelines – or clearer enforcement protocols – may soon emerge.
