The government has plans to make cash infusion(s) to the financially troubled Anguilla Electricity Company, Limited (ANGLEC). Speaking at the government’s weekly Press Conference on December 6, 2021, Premier Dr. Ellis Lorenzo Webster reported: “Central Government has made its payments [to ANGLEC] and is looking into making cash advance(s) to the company. We are still working out the details at this point through the Ministry of Finance.”
The Premier noted that, the Central Government “has written to its statutory bodies so that they make every effort to become current with ANGLEC.” He noted that, at this point in time, “some of the statutory bodies have become current, [but] there are still a couple that have large arrears. We are working with them.”
He continued: “The statutory bodies are outside of Central Government, although the ministers do have some responsibility. Discussions are ongoing, and we are working with the CEOs of those boards to come up with solutions.”
Premier Webster also indicated that the Central Government has made certain commitments to the people of Anguilla. He emphasised that: “The government of Anguilla is working closely with the Board of ANGLEC to find solutions to the issues. ANGLEC is a vital asset to Anguilla and to the people of Anguilla. We will do everything in our power to make sure that the company is viable and continues to provide the service that is essential.”
In light of the recent seemingly breakdown in communications between ANGLEC and the government of Anguilla, the Premier assured the public that the existing relationship between both entities is cordial. He said: “As you know, the government of Anguilla is responsible for 79% of the shares of ANGLEC – and the Board [of ANGLEC] is selected by the entities that control the shares. It is public knowledge that Dr. Wycliffe Fahie has resigned. No replacement has been made at this time, but it is being worked on. The relationship right now is good.”
