The government of Antigua and Barbuda has approved a utilities amnesty, waiving all outstanding arrears for residents who have been disconnected from electricity, water or landline telephone services for more than 180 days.

The announcement, made following the weekly Cabinet meeting and outlined by Director General of Communications Maurice Merchant, is aimed at providing relief to households facing financial hardship and restoring access to essential services.

The policy applies to customers who have been without service for at least six months. Affected residents are being encouraged to contact the Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA) to arrange reconnection under the amnesty programme.

Cabinet said the decision forms part of a broader effort to ease cost-of-living pressures and ensure that basic services remain accessible to all citizens. The measure is also intended to support vulnerable and low-income households impacted by prolonged disconnections.

The amnesty was among several matters discussed at the Cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Gaston Browne, which also addressed the recent dissolution of Parliament and preparations for upcoming general elections.

Officials are urging eligible residents to take advantage of the initiative, noting that public cooperation will be key to its implementation.