Dozens of workers hired by the Public Works Department in recent months will be used to support a national clean-up and beautification effort across Antigua and Barbuda, Prime Minister Gaston Browne says.

Speaking on Pointe FM, Browne said Public Works had expanded its workforce ahead of the April 30 general election and that many of the employees would now assist with environmental maintenance projects and the upkeep of public spaces.

“Public Works have taken on a few hundred individuals in the last few months,” Browne said.

“I’ve said to them that they should be utilized to help to keep the country clean,” he added.

The prime minister said the initiative forms part of a broader effort to improve the appearance of Antigua and Barbuda through roadworks, landscaping, the removal of derelict structures and increased beautification activities.

“We’re pushing to not only clean up the entire country, get rid of all these derelict properties and so on, but at the same time to beautify our country,” Browne said.

He said the government also plans to expand landscaping along major roads and public areas, including the planting of flowering plants and fruit trees.

Browne described Public Works as both a training ground and a social safety net, arguing that the department has historically provided employment opportunities for people with limited skills and those facing economic hardship.

The comments come as the government continues infrastructure and environmental improvement projects following the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party’s fourth consecutive election victory.