Festivals Commission officials say payments are coming this week.
The assurance follows protests by steelbands over delayed funds.

The Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission addressed the issue Monday.
Specifically, it concerns Schools Panorama participants.
Many have waited months for payment.

Commission chair Elizabeth “Lisa” Makhoul confirmed the update.
She said outstanding payments are now being processed.
Some of the delays date back to October.

According to Makhoul, payments will be settled in the coming days.
Therefore, affected schools and bands should expect relief soon.

However, frustration had already reached a boiling point.
On Friday, senior steelbands staged a public protest.
The action took place during Panache Steel Orchestra’s event.

The event was the “Lovers Rock” Block-o-rama.
During the show, bands acted in unity.
They used the platform to voice long-standing concerns.

Panache captain Maurisha Potter spoke during the protest.
She said local musicians often face payment delays.
Meanwhile, foreign performers are paid on time.

As a result, resentment has grown among pan players.
Potter said the pattern feels unfair and discouraging.
She added that musicians deserve respect for their work.

Other pan leaders also addressed the crowd.
Cuthbert “Tiny” Thomas called for collective action.
Derel Jarvis echoed those calls.

Both leaders rejected selective meetings with the Commission.
Instead, they demanded inclusive discussions.
They said all bands deserve equal treatment.

Despite the dispute, the protest carried a deeper message.
Musicians highlighted the cultural value of steelpan.
They also focused on its role in youth development.

According to pan players, the panyard offers structure.
It teaches discipline and teamwork.
It also provides a safe space for young people.

Musicians said panyards help keep youth away from crime.
Therefore, supporting pan is an investment in society.

They stressed that delayed payments threaten that mission.
Without support, youth programs become harder to sustain.
As a result, communities may lose vital outlets.

The Commission’s promise has eased some tension.
However, trust remains fragile.
Pan leaders say action matters more than words.

They will watch closely this week.
Payments, they say, must arrive as promised.
Only then can confidence begin to rebuild.