Antigua and Barbuda officials plan to temporarily suspend evening restrictions for young people during this summer's Carnival celebrations. Attorney General Sir Steadroy Benjamin announced the government will modify current rules that keep minors off the streets between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. The temporary change allows children to attend nighttime festival events like the Teenage Pageant and youth performances. Benjamin stated authorities recognize this period requires celebration while maintaining that regular enforcement will resume after festivities end. The curfew remains an active law despite the seasonal adjustment.
Officials established the nighttime restriction last year through changes to the Small Charges Act. Parents face penalties reaching EC$5,000 when authorities find their children violating curfew hours. The government created these measures to reduce youth violence and disruptive conduct. Community members have expressed divided opinions about relaxing restrictions during the July 25 to August 5 festival period. Safety concerns compete with desires for young people to participate fully in the celebration, themed as a positive experience.
Officials established the nighttime restriction last year through changes to the Small Charges Act. Parents face penalties reaching EC$5,000 when authorities find their children violating curfew hours. The government created these measures to reduce youth violence and disruptive conduct. Community members have expressed divided opinions about relaxing restrictions during the July 25 to August 5 festival period. Safety concerns compete with desires for young people to participate fully in the celebration, themed as a positive experience.
