Antigua and Barbuda’s government has announced plans to pay outstanding wages owed to public servants from the Covid-19 period. The payments relate to salaries affected during pandemic restrictions.

According to officials, some public sector workers faced pay suspensions during the emergency period. Others experienced reduced hours or unpaid leave. As a result, several salary claims remained unresolved.

To address this, the government has assigned permanent secretaries to manage the process. They are responsible for collecting and validating claims from affected employees. Each claim must be reviewed before payment.

Importantly, workers must submit claims to their respective ministries. The deadline for submission is December 31, 2025. Officials stressed that late claims may delay payment.

Once ministries complete verification, claims will move to the Treasury. The Treasury will then process approved payments. Disbursements are expected to begin in January 2026.

The government said the decision aims to address financial hardship caused by Covid-era measures. During the pandemic, restrictions affected government operations and public sector payrolls. Consequently, some workers experienced income loss.

Officials urged all eligible employees to act promptly. They emphasized the importance of meeting the deadline. Doing so will help ensure timely processing and payment.

Meanwhile, the announcement has drawn attention from public sector unions. These groups have raised concerns about unpaid wages for several years. Therefore, the move may bring relief to affected workers.

The government has not disclosed the total value of the outstanding payments. However, officials confirmed that all verified claims will be honored. Payments will follow standard Treasury procedures.

Additionally, ministries are expected to assist employees with documentation. This includes confirming employment status and salary adjustments during the pandemic period.

Officials said the process will follow clear administrative guidelines. Claims must reflect actual salary interruptions during Covid-related restrictions. Any discrepancies will require further review.

Overall, the initiative marks a step toward resolving long-standing wage issues. It also signals closure for unresolved Covid-related salary matters.

For now, public servants are encouraged to contact their ministries. Officials say cooperation will help speed up the process. Payments are expected to roll out early in the new year.

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