Sports and Creative Industries Minister Dwayne George has pledged continued government support for Antigua and Barbuda’s Special Olympics athletes as the team prepares for major regional and international events.
George gave the assurance Tuesday during a meeting with Joy-Ann Harrigan, national director of Special Olympics Antigua and Barbuda and education officer for special needs within the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology.
The discussions came as Antigua and Barbuda prepares to participate in the Special Olympics Caribbean Beach Games in Montego Bay, Jamaica, from Nov. 18-22, 2026. The country is also expected to compete at the 2027 Special Olympics World Summer Games in Santiago, Chile, from Oct. 16-24.
During the meeting, Harrigan outlined the work of Special Olympics Antigua and Barbuda and its involvement with athletes from the Adele School for Special Children and other public educational institutions.
She also highlighted support provided by the government, the National Olympic Committee and the Antigua and Barbuda Athletic Association, including access to YASCO for training.
Harrigan appealed to George for financial assistance to help cover airfare for athletes and members of the management team travelling to Jamaica for the Caribbean Beach Games later this year.
George assured Harrigan of the government’s continued support and stressed the importance of ensuring students with special educational needs have opportunities to participate and develop through sports.
The minister advised Harrigan to submit the necessary written requests to the ministry before the government moves to provide the requested assistance.
Special Olympics programmes provide people with intellectual disabilities opportunities to participate in sports while developing their athletic abilities, confidence and social skills.
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