Barbudans ‘refusing to leave cricket ground’

Last updated: 4 January 2018, 8:49 am

Barbudans left homeless when Hurricane Irma smashed into the island have refused to leave the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in Antigua.

According to reports, many have said they won’t leave until they have been offered assurances about their next accommodation.

Antigua News Room reports that those stranded at the stadium, their shelter since the category five storm struck in September, want to be sure that their next lodgings are “suitable”.

Another outlet, the Antigua Observer, there was at least one confrontation between a temporary resident and staff. Workers were sent home early to avoid clashes with those living there.

Last week Paul "Chet" Green, the country’s sports minister, said that those living at the facility would have to be move on so the stadium could be prepared for international cricket matches.

The minister did not mention their next location.

Soon after, the government announced that those left stranded after Hurricane Irma would be moving to the Barrymore Hotel, the old nurse’s hostel, as well as accommodation on Barbuda.