The Government of Antigua and Barbuda has endorsed the introduction of a new digital platform designed to transform the way child maintenance payments are collected and monitored, with officials hoping the initiative will improve compliance and provide greater financial security for thousands of children across the country.
The approval came during Thursday’s Cabinet meeting following a presentation by Family Court Registrar Fanella Francis, Crown Counsel Allicia Aska and a local software developer on the proposed Main Collect application.
According to officials, the Family Court currently manages between 1,500 and 2,500 fathers with court-ordered child maintenance obligations, many of whom are in arrears. The resulting delinquency has created financial challenges for mothers, guardians and children who rely on these payments.
The Main Collect application, expected to become operational within the next six months, will allow maintenance payments to be made electronically while giving recipients secure access to monitor deposits and payment histories. The platform will also provide court officials with real-time information on compliance rates, outstanding balances and payment trends.
Cabinet was advised that the application has already received approval from the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court and is expected to be introduced across member states of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), positioning Antigua and Barbuda at the forefront of digital justice reform in the region.
Beyond the technological solution, ministers also discussed additional measures to improve enforcement of child maintenance orders. These include possible legislative amendments to strengthen penalties for chronic defaulters, the establishment of a register of delinquent fathers and closer collaboration with employers to facilitate wage deductions where necessary.
Cabinet members welcomed the initiative as a significant step toward strengthening family responsibility while ensuring that children receive the financial support guaranteed under the law.
The Government said it remains committed to protecting the welfare of children and believes the combination of digital innovation and stronger enforcement measures will substantially improve compliance with maintenance obligations across Antigua and Barbuda.
