Independent MP Anthony Smith has urged both sides of Parliament to work together to address the challenges facing Antigua and Barbuda’s Social Security Scheme.

Speaking during Monday’s Lower House session, Smith criticised the United Progressive Party (UPP) for spreading “misinformation” and accused both major parties of contributing to the scheme’s financial struggles.

“What the scheme needs is prudent investment to secure its long-term viability,” he said, calling for immediate action based on reports from the Social Security director.

Smith argued that the UPP had been “hypocritical” for criticising government borrowing from the scheme while also doing so when in power.

He stressed that reforming the Social Security system should not be treated as a partisan issue.

“This is a national matter that affects the most vulnerable – our elderly, sick and children,” he said. “We must rise above political noise and build a sustainable system for all of Antigua and Barbuda.”