The government’s plan to reopen the Antigua and Barbuda Cancer Centre has been delayed due to challenges in removing outdated medical equipment.

Director of Communications in the Prime Minister’s Office, Maurice Merchant, said the process requires specialized professionals, which has taken longer than expected.

“It remains a priority to have the centre operational, because currently the government is funding patients’ treatment overseas,” he said.

Merchant confirmed that an agreement on the centre’s management is already in place, and work will move ahead once the old equipment is safely cleared.

Opened in 2009, the cancer centre was once a key regional facility offering radiation and oncology services. Operations slowed in recent years due to aging equipment and staffing issues, forcing many patients to seek care abroad.

The refurbishment is part of a wider effort to strengthen healthcare infrastructure and restore access to local cancer treatment. Merchant reaffirmed that reopening the facility remains a top government priority.