Parliamentarians in Antigua and Barbuda will debate a resolution today setting out guidelines for any arrangements to accept Third Country Nationals (TCNs) deported from the United States (US).

Under the proposed framework, any automatic transfer programme would be prohibited, and the government would be required to approve each individual case before a person could be accepted into Antigua and Barbuda.

The proposal received from the United States and the government’s response, would also be released making it Antigua and Barbuda first country to publicly disclose both documents.

In a statement yesterday, the government said any potential arrangement would have to address key issues, including identity verification, legal status, accommodation, security, funding and responsibility for onward travel or return.

These sticking points were previously revealed by Prime Minister Gaston Browne, who said Antigua and Barbuda’s size and limited resources prevent the country from accepting large numbers of people. 

Browne had said his country was willing to accept a maximum of around 10 people per year, once they are properly vetted and the US government agreed to conditions including providing funding for their accommodation and support.

In Monday’s statement, Browne said the decision to bring the matter before Parliament was aimed at ensuring transparency on an issue involving legal, humanitarian, financial and security considerations.

“This Government believes that matters of such legal, humanitarian, financial and security importance must be handled openly and with respect for Parliament. By bringing the full proposal from the United States, and our response, before the House of Representatives, Antigua and Barbuda is demonstrating transparency and accountability, while maintaining our longstanding friendship and cooperation with the Government and people of the United States,” Browne said.

The government added that its longstanding relationship with the United States remains important, but any decision must take into account Antigua and Barbuda’s sovereignty, resources and ability to manage the impact of such an arrangement.