Government fulfills major commitment to Grenadian students

ST. GEORGE’S, APRIL 2, 2012 - A major commitment by Prime Minister Hon. Tillman Thomas to the people of St. Patrick and Carriacou will be fulfilled on Wednesday 4^th April, 2012, when the T. A. Marryshow Community College launches its video conference facility to three campus locations.

The new facility is a contribution by the board of the Caribbean Knowledge and Learning Network (CKLN) to the government and people of Grenada that will propel in a new era of how education is delivered to TAMCC students living in St. Patrick and Grenada. This network will allow students at the St. Patrick and Carriacou Campuses of the TAMCC to participate in classes and interact with teachers at the Tanteen Campus of the College in real time.

The Prime Minister said that the video conference facility is a very important development for the people of northern Grenada and Carriacou, “because it means that they will save on transport and other expenses they would have to undertake if they had to commute every day. This is especially important for the parents and young people of Carriacou and Petite Martinique,” the Prime Minister said.

The funding for this project, worth EC$393,228, is provided by the European Union as part of the Euro10.00 million grant to the Caribbean for developing a regional network called C@ribNET, connecting all CARICOM member States.

The development is a culmination of a consistent campaign by the Prime Minister and his administration to utilize Information Communication Technology (ICT) to provide education and other government services to the Grenadian public “wherever they live”.

“I am excited that this project has finally come on stream and I look forward to the expansion of services offered by the TAMCC at the Sauteur’s and Hillsborough locations,” the Prime Minister said Friday.

The launch programme will utilize the technology with audiences, including the Prime Minister and Minister for Education, Sen. Franka Alexis-Bernardine in St. Patrick, while the Minister for Carriacou and Petite Martinique Affairs, Sen. George Prime will be in Hillsborough.

“This contribution of the connectivity and the provision of the equipment for this video conferencing service to Grenada is quite appropriate”, said Mr. Ken Sylvester, CEO of CKLN, as the CKLN is headquartered in St. Georges and has benefited from the hospitality and support of the Grenada government.

SOURCE: Office of the Prime Minister

PM Thomas stresses Independence theme in Toronto activities

TORONTO, February 18, 2012 - Grenadians in Toronto, Canada are continuing their observance of the nation’s 38^th Anniversary of Independence with a Gala at Liberty Grand in Toronto on Saturday.

Prime Minister Tillman Thomas will join compatriots in celebrating the anniversary under the theme, “Breaking all barriers, striving for greater achievements under one flag”.

Saturday’s Gala, a sold-out event, is the penultimate event in the programme of activities organised by the Grenada Independence Planning Committee in partnership with the Consulate General in Toronto and the Grenada Association – Toronto.

The Prime Minister, who arrived in Toronto on Thursday, met with staff at the Consulate, held a radio interview and also met with executive members of several Grenadian organisations in Toronto.

On Friday, Mr Thomas held a press conference at the Consulate and later met with members of the Independent United Order of Solomon (Pride of Toronto Chapter Inc.), headed by Lloyd Seivright. The Prime Minister also accepted seven (7) wheelchairs and crutches donated for each parish. Prime Minister Thomas also met with the Lieutenant Governor of Ontario Legislative, Hon. David Onley.

The Grenadian leader was kept busy on Friday as he also attended a reception meeting hosted by G. Raymond Chang, Chancellor of Ryerson University, Business Leader and Philanthropist and his wife Donette Chin-Loy.

Also attending this reception were recently elected member of Provincial Parliament, Michael Coteau, whose family is from Carriacou as well as Mr Colin Dowe, who is representing St George’s University, sponsors of the Literary Night which is scheduled for February 26.

Throughout his meetings in Toronto, Prime Minister Thomas reiterated that Grenada is a safe destination with very hospitable people, as well as emphasising the excellent business climate on the island.

He said that the government continues to create opportunities for young people especially in health sector training, ICT and agri-business.

PM Tillman Thomas: Mr Brizan was passionate about Grenada

ST. GEORGE’S, Grenada, February 18, 2012 - Prime Minister Hon. Tillman Thomas has expressed “deep sadness” at the passing of former Prime Minister and founding member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), George Brizan.

The Prime Minister, who is presently in Canada celebrating Grenada’s 38th Anniversary of Independence, said Mr. Brizan was a patriotic Grenadian whose love for country was exceptional.

Mr. Thomas said the former Prime Minister was passionate about Grenada.

He championed the role of the agricultural sector in general and his book ‘Grenada’s Black Gold’, outlined his enduring interest in and support for the Nutmeg industry.

The Prime Minister recalled that Mr. Brizan was especially attached to the farmers of the country during his time of service.

“I remember him as a friend and statesman, a man committed to his family. Although afflicted by sickness, he still found opportunities to contribute to discussions on national development. He kept himself informed about the activities of those he loved,” Prime Minister Thomas said Saturday.

“Grenada has lost a great stalwart, who gave selflessly as a teacher, author, politician, historian, minister of government and Prime Minister. On behalf of my family, my Cabinet, the National Democratic

Congress, the Government and people of Grenada, I express to his family, his friends and his associates, my heartfelt sorrow during this difficult time,” the Prime Minister said.

“My prayers are with his family and all Grenadians,” he added.

SOURCE: Office of the Prime Minister

PM Thomas: Grenadians must take advantage of ICT Centre for Excellence & Innovation

File Photo

ST. GEORGE’S, Grenada, Febryary 17, 2012 - Grenada’s Prime Minister, Hon. Tillman Thomas has appealed for greater use to be made of the country’s ICT Centre for Excellence and Innovation (ICEI).

“I urge you to make full use of the ICT Centre for Excellence and Innovation. Get yourself trained; train your staff or contribute to the training of our nation’s youth,” the Prime Minister said as he addressed a recent regional ICT workshop in Grenada.

“We must develop a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship among our people in order to make Grenada the ICT hub for our region,” the Prime Minister said, noting that the establishment of the Centre is an important tool in training Grenada’s youth to take advantage of the opportunities available in the global market.

The Prime Minister, under whose portfolio ICT falls, has reiterated his government’s support for the project which is also available to students from the OECS and other Caribbean territories.

The ICT Centre was one of the main areas of discussion recently between the Prime Minister and the Trinidad based Indian High Commissioner to Grenada, His Excellency Malay Mishra, whose government was the main partner in the setting up of the facility.

Two Indian experts are currently here providing assistance in the development of software and other forms of training available at the ICEI, which is housed at the headquarters of the Grenada Industrial Development Corporation (GIDC), at Frequente.

The Centre, will next week announce a major undertaking with an international telecommunications manufacturer for the development of mobile applications.

SOURCE: Office of the Prime Minister

Grenada wants urgent harmonisation of ICT legislation

PM Tillman Thomas

ST. GEORGE’S, Grenada, February 17, 2012 - There is an “urgent need” to harmonise the legislative and regulatory framework governing Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in the region, according to Grenada’s Prime Minister Hon. Tillman Thomas.

Speaking to a consultation on the Harmonisation of ICT Policies, Legislation and Regulatory Procedures (HIPCAR), the Prime Minister said Grenada and the region, are unable to realistically develop local content and creativity or access the benefits offered by e-Government and e-Business, if there are no laws to protect users and their work.

“Since 2008, the need for harmonized legislation has become more urgent….. not only because of email and Blackberry Messenger, Facebook and Twitter, which are now more pervasive than ever, but also, because of the priority we have placed on ICT in Grenada…..Information and Communication Technology has been identified as one of the five pillars for economic transformation,” he noted.

Prime Minister Thomas reiterated his administration’s view that ICT, along with Education, Health and Wellness services, Tourism and Hospitality services and Energy Development and Agri-business, will ensure diversity, resilience and sustainability in Grenada’s economic growth.

“We have determined that Information and Communication Technology is a vehicle that will connect and attract our highly skilled, computer savvy young people to the world of work which is becoming more attractive as geographical location is becoming less relevant. We also see it as a tool for greater efficiency in the work place,” the Prime Minister declared.

The Grenadian leader, who is also responsible for ICT and is the lead Head in CARICOM for the sector, said the absence of the enabling legislation is frustrating efforts to attract foreign investment into the sector.

The Prime Minister said he hopes the synergies that can be derived from HIPCAR and the Electronic Government for Regional Integration Project (EGRIP), in which Grenada is also involved, will “ensure that we meet the global best practice and make Grenada and the region a safe and competitive environment in which to do business.”

SOURCE: Office of the Prime Minister

Nothing Like Chocolate

An Interview with Director Kum-Kum Bhavnani

By Lauren Carter

JANUARY 30, 2012 - Kum-Kum Bhavnani is a renowned filmmaker whose award-winning documentary Shape of Water helped open the eyes of many to social injustices, especially towards women in several Third World countries. Her latest film,Nothing Like Chocolate, received a standing ovation at this past weekend’s premiere in Santa Barbara’s Lobero Theatre. The story tells of the adventures and struggles of Mott Green on his venture to create organic chocolate that benefits everyone from the beginning stages to the chocolate’s final consumption. This week, Bhavnani explains her passion for the film and all of those involved.

Tell us a little about the film.

Nothing Like Chocolate is a film that tells a story about a quirky chocolate maker, Mott Green, who set up a chocolate company partly because he heard of children being trafficked and enslaved in the Ivory Coast, produces over one third of the world’s cocoa. I decided to make the film because I heard about the children being enslaved and trafficked and I wanted to find someone who was running a business and doing it right. I wanted to show it was possible to run an ethical corporation, to be successful doing the right thing.

Why is this issue personal to you?

I read an article in 2001 that talked about the trafficked children and it made me so upset because so many people love chocolate and I was horrified that I wasn’t more aware of the situation. I wanted to tell the world and inspire people to care about stopping this violation of human rights. Because of who I am, I wanted to show how to get out of these situations and demonstrate how beautiful, ethical chocolate can be created.

What was your favorite part about making Nothing Like Chocolate?

My favorite part was seeing the generosity of people who helped me make it. The crew and editors, everyone just gave their all for the film. I find documentary makers to be very generous people, they lived in quite spartan conditions and the editors and associate producers have just been working away non-stop since day one.

My other favorite part was meeting the people there who are just fantastic. Meeting them opens my eyes to what’s going on in the world and we were able to interview the prime minister of Grenada, and meet hardworking people who felt the need to do something about the trafficking. It has also been amazing to experience the kick start of supporters, and of course seeing the film on the big screen.

I felt very touched by meeting Mott and Nelice. Mott because of his passion and determination and Nelice because of her wisdom, her determination, her perseverance. She is raising seven children all while working hard to keep her organic farm running smoothly.

Does Nelice remind you of your own mother?

Nelice does remind me of my mom actually. My mother was this amazing woman who did not get married until she was 34 and worked to put her brothers and sisters through university. She was very headstrong and passionate and hardworking. She never gave up in believing and fighting for what was right.

What did you want to do different in this film?

I realized that I wanted to make this documentary much more of a story. People get hooked on issues not by having a ton of talking heads, but by meeting people who are doing things. By learning about individuals’ lives they feel like getting personally involved in the issues. This time the documentary was definitely more story driven rather than issue driven.

Mott was given a standing ovation. He is very, very popular. We hope to have a Grenada premiere in June. People can relate. This is a story of someone doing it right, we all have the passion to do something the right way. To implement pure intentions into our work. All of us feel we can’t do it, but you know when you see someone else doing it right we recognize it’s the right thing to do and we know that we can do it too.

Any ideas for your next film?

For my next film I’m just waiting for inspiration so all ideas are welcome. It was a full house yesterday and people can still see it at the Lobero, which is a fantastic Santa Barbara theater. I’m very grateful for UCSB for its support of my research and for everyone involved. I’m just enjoying the ride now and I hope people are as touched by the film as I was making it.

Nothing Like Chocolate screens again on Friday, February 3, 2 p.m., at the Lobero Theatre and Sunday, February 5, 11 a.m. at the Metro 4.

SOURCE: Independent.com

Step closer to new multi-purpose complex

ST GEORGE’S, January 27, 2012 – The people of Mont Toute and Grand Anse Valley are one step closer to getting new facilities for educational and recreational activities.

A symbolic sod turning ceremony was held Thursday, January 26, on the site where a multi-purpose complex will be constructed with funding from the Government and people of Venezuela.

When completed, the Mont Toute/Grand Anse Valley Development Complex will include a modern library with access to computers and other information technology. The project will also involve upgrading of the community’s playing field.

Thursday’s ceremony was attended by community representatives, as well as by Prime Minister Hon. Tillman Thomas.

The Prime Minister was joined by Labour Minister and MP for St. George South, Glynis Roberts; Foreign Minister Karl Hood, who chaired the event; Sports Minister Patrick Simmons; Tourism Minister Peter David; Agriculture Minister Denis Lett; and MP for St. Patrick West, Joseph Gilbert.

In brief remarks at the ceremony, the Prime Minister and his Ministers of Sports, Foreign Affairs and Labour, underscored the importance of the complex to the people of Mont Toute and other parts of South St. George’s.

They also thanked President Hugo Chavez and Venezuela for financing the construction of the complex and several other projects across Grenada.

Venezuela’s Ambassador, His Excellency Carlos Amador Perez Silva, said his country was pleased to help Grenada, with whom it has had diplomatic relations for 35 years.

Grenadians in the Diaspora gear up to celebrate 38th Anniversary of Independence

By Michael Bascombe

NEW YORK, January 25, 2012 - Grenadians living in the Diaspora will celebrate their nation’s 38^th Anniversary of Independence under the theme, “Breaking all barriers, striving for greater achievements under one flag” on February 7, 2012 with a series of activities.

The activities officially began in New York on January 20 with a Social Evening and a Calypso Monarch Competition on January 22. Burgess “Quako” McPhie dethroned Clifford “Humorous Matt” Matthew with his rendition of “These Are the Times”.

Activities continue this weekend with a Youth Fest on Friday January 28 at Holy Cross School at 2530 Church Avenue in Brooklyn beginning at 3:00 p.m. and an Ecumenical Church Service of Thanksgiving at the Holy Cross Church at 2520 Church Avenue in Brooklyn, beginning at 4:00 p.m.

There will also be the annual Senior Citizen Tea Party at Gabriel’s Church at 337 Hawthorne Street in Brooklyn, starting at 3:00 p.m. This year, the Hon. Tillman Thomas, Prime Minister of Grenada will attend the event scheduled for Thursday February 2.

The activities in New York will culminate with the Independence Dinner & Awards Gala under the auspices of Prime Minister Thomas on Saturday February 4 at Grand Prospect Place at 263 Prospect Avenue in Brooklyn beginning at 9:30 p.m.

Similarly, activities will be held in in South Florida and London on Saturday February 4. The Grenada Cultural & Civic Association is staging its 24^th Annual Independence Dinner & Dance at the Sheraton Fort Lauderdale Hotel at 1825 Griffin Road in Dania, Florida beginning at 7:00 p.m. while the United Groups of Grenada, under the auspices of the High Commissioner for Grenada to the United Kingdom, Ruth Rouse, will host an Independence Dinner & Dance at Novotel London West at 1 Shortlands, Hammersmith beginning at 6:30 p.m.

The Grenada Houston Association will also stage the Independence Celebration & Scholarship Gala at the Ensemble Theatre at 3535 Main Street in Houston, Texas. It will be held on Saturday February 11 beginning at 8:00 p.m. Nationals in Zurich, Switzerland will also celebrate Grenada’s Independence at The Nutmeg Restaurant in Zurich on February 11 at 7:30 p.m.

Independence celebrations will also be held in Toronto and Montreal in Canada. The activities in Toronto begin with a Church Service on Sunday February 5 at Toronto’s Central Seventh Day Adventist Church at 162 Bentworth Avenue, North York in Ontario beginning at 3:00 p.m.

Other activities include a Flag Raising Ceremony on Monday February 6 at Toronto’s City Hall beginning at 11:50 a.m.; the Showcase Grenada Expo on Sunday February 12 at 2562 Eglinton Avenue West beginning at 1:00 p.m. This inaugural event will showcase Grenada’s culture, cuisine, arts and crafts, festivals, investment and eco-tourism, among others.

Fish Friday on February 17 at 1935 Weston Road has been included in the schedule of activities as well as the Independence Gala on Saturday February 18 at Liberty Grand situated at 25 British Columbia Road in Toronto. Prime Minister Tillman Thomas will be the guest of honour at the Gala which begins at 6:30 p.m.

The Independence activities in Toronto culminate with a Literary Night on Sunday February 26 at 2562 Eglinton Avenue West beginning at 4:00 p.m. This event will showcase Grenada’s authors, poets, playwrights, artists and other literary talents in Toronto.

Nationals in Montreal will also share a taste of the Spice Isle’s celebrations with a Banquet and Ball on Saturday February 18 at the Schofield Hall at 90 Roosevelt Avenue. It begins at 6:30 p.m. and Tourism and Civil Aviation Minister Peter David will be special guest.

PM Thomas meets with Foreign Secretary Hague ahead of UK-Caribbean Forum

By Michael Bascombe

ST GEORGE’S, Grenada, January 20, 2012 - Prime Minister Tillman Thomas is hoping that this weekend’s seventh UK-Caribbean Forum being hosted in Grenada will result in a clearer understanding of key issues important in the strengthening of relations between the Caribbean and the United Kingdom.

Prime Minister Thomas made the comments during a brief discussion with UK’s Foreign Secretary Williams Hague on Friday.

Mr Hague is leading a large UK delegation to the Forum which begins on Friday evening with a welcome reception at the Grenadian by Rex Resorts.

The Prime Minister thanked the visiting Foreign Minister for the UK’s continued assistance to the Caribbean especially in areas of security, climate change and development aid.

Mr Hague also congratulated Grenada on its leadership role on climate change during its tenure as Chair of the Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS).

“Climate change remains a global responsibility and we admired the leading role Grenada played in recent climate change talks,” he said.

The Foreign Secretary, who was accompanied by the Director of the Americas Angus Lapsley, also met with Foreign Affairs Minister Karl Hood.

Prime Minister Thomas presented a painting of the Carenage by Grenadian resident and well known artist Susan Mains while the Mr Hague presented a hardcover copy of his book “William Wilberforce: The Life of the Great Anti-Slave Trade Campaigner.

Caribbean countries could benefit from proposed NYC Pension Fund

PM Thomas & NYC Comptroller Liu

NEW YORK, January 11, 2012 - A major investment initiative designed to spur economic and social development in the Caribbean and boost New Yorkers’ public pensions is being considered by the office of New York City comptroller.

And it is being done at the urging of the Caribbean American Chamber of Commerce and Industry, CACCI and with the active interest of Caricom.

A statement from the CACCI said the proposed scheme “is an initiative which, if successfully launched, would involve the use of pension funds in profitable and employment generating ventures in the Caribbean, and bring healthy returns to the City.”

The proposal was made when Grenada’s Prime Minister, Tillman Thomas, then chairman of Caricom, visited New York to address a high-level United Nations meeting on HIV/AIDS, and participate in the Caribbean Tourism Organisation’s week of marketing activities that promoted the region’s lucrative tourism industry, and to be honoured by the chamber.

During his visit, he met with New York City Comptroller, John Liu, and discussed the potential financial benefits to the City and the prospects of development in the Caribbean through the investment of pension funds. “The New York City comptroller has fiduciary responsibility for the efficient management of billions of dollars in New York City pension funds and therefore must ensure that due diligence is done before any steps are taken,” said Dr Roy Hastick, the chamber’s founder, president and a driving force behind the initiative.

“The proposal to invest some of the funds was first articulated by William Bill Thompson and it is being considered by Mr. Liu, his successor. When the Grenada leader and Caricom chairman came to the City, we were able to schedule a meeting with him and the comptroller, during which we explored the feasibility of providing interest-bearing loans to the Caribbean nations, in much the same way that pension funds are being used for investment purposes in Europe and elsewhere.

“We at the chamber had previously discussed the proposal with both Mr Thompson and Mr Liu, and we are convinced that if implemented, it can be mutually beneficial to the City and to the Caribbean,” Hastick added. During the meeting which was also attended by New York City Council member Jumaane Williams, a Democrat of Brooklyn, the prime minister spoke about the economic benefits the low-interest loans would create in the region.

“It was a productive session and the chamber is happy with the results,” said the CACCI president. It was agreed that follow-up sessions would be held with stakeholders to develop a sustainable and practical plan of action. “It was recognised that the highest possible financial management standards must be adhered to at every step.”

With more than a million people from across the Caribbean now living and working as taxpayers in the New York metropolitan area, many of them contributing to the pension funds, the Caribbean nations and territories should be considered as an area of investment by pension fund managers, added Dr Hastick.

”The chamber and the broader Caribbean immigrant community in and out of New York City believe it represents a realistic and viable proposal which should be pursued,” he said. “Our organisation considers an honor to have been able to facilitate the meeting with the assistance of council member Jumaane Williams, and to have both the Caricom chairman and the comptroller explore the chances of taking such investment possibilities to the Caribbean.

The prime minister was certainly satisfied with the outcome. “We believe the Caribbean Development Bank could be used as a channel for the investment. The Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) has an investment grade rating from Wall Street.”

PM sympathises with family of former Cab Sec, attends home service

Chasley David and Prime Minister Tillman Thomas

ST GEORGE’S, January 3, 2012 – Grenada’s Prime Minister and Leader of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Hon. Tillman Thomas, was among dozens of people who attended a service of praise and remembrance Monday evening in honour of the late senior public servant Marcella David, a former Cabinet Secretary.

Mrs. David, who also worked at the Grenada Boys’ Secondary School and earlier on in the private sector at the then Slinger-owned Supplies Store, died Saturday at her home in Grand Anse, St. George’s.

She is survived by her husband of 60 years, well-known businessman Chasley David; as well as by sons Phillip, Paul, Patrick and Peter.

Peter David, Minister of Tourism and Civil Aviation and NDC General Secretary, thanked the roomful of friends, family members and colleagues – and especially the Prime Minister – for attending Monday’s home service.

He described his deceased mother as a loving person who was immensely proud of her four sons.

Grenadian Voice Editor, Leslie Pierre

Apart from Prime Minister Thomas, several other government colleagues of the Tourism Minister – the MP for the Town of St. George – were also present to sympathize with the David family. In addition, there were senior representatives of the NDC such as Chairman Kenrick Fullerton; former Chairman and now Information Minister in government, Senator Glen Noel; former executive member, Siddiqui Sylvester; and Chairman of the Town of St. George Constituency Group, Dr. Winston Thomas.

They were joined by a cross-section of people from various professions and backgrounds including Archdeacon Christian Glasgow and his wife, Deacon Eleanor Glasgow, of the Anglican Church; retired Permanent Secretary and veteran Anglican Church organizer, Pamela Steele; Grenadian Voice editor, Leslie Pierre; businessman and Chairman of the Grenada Airlift Committee, Michael McIntyre; and Permanent Secretaries Allison Miller and Arlene Buckmire-Outram.

The funeral for Mrs. David will be held Thursday, January 12, at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception according to Anglican rites.

SOURCE: National Democratic Congress

Grenada's Prime Minister promises full investigation into alleged police beating

ST. GEORGE’S, December 28, 2011 - Prime Minister Tillman Thomas has expressed sympathy with the relatives and friends of Oscar Bartholomew, who died as a result of an incident in St. David on Boxing Day.

The Prime Minister, who is also Grenada’s Minister of Legal Affairs, visited with family members of the deceased on Wednesday and expressed sorrow at the incident.

The Grenadian leader was accompanied by the Member of Parliament for St. David, Denis Michael Lett and Minister with responsibility for Information, Information Communications Technology (ICT) and Mobilisation, in the Prime Minister’s Office, Senator Glen Noel.

Prime Minister Thomas promised his full support to ensuring the determination of the facts of the incident and has asked the Attorney General’s Chambers to help with the investigation.

The Prime Minister this morning emphasized the need for a “full and unimpeded” investigation into the incident. The following is the full text of the statement.

“As Prime Minister and Minister for National Security, I sympathize with the family and friends of Oscar Bartholomew, the victim of a tragedy in St. David on Boxing Day.

I have been informed by Police Commissioner Willan Thompson that an investigation is underway to determine the facts.

I have asked the Commissioner for a full report, once the investigation is completed. I will give all the necessary support and make the resources available, to ensure a full and transparent process.

I have directed the respective government departments and agencies, including the Attorney General’s Chambers, to provide the support necessary for the full and unimpeded investigation of this occurrence.”

SOURCE: Office of the Prime Minister

Grenada Government Ministers and Officials visit General Hospital

ST. GEORGE’S, Grenada, December 23, 2011 – Prime Minister Hon. Tillman Thomas on Thursday led a delegation of government ministers and senior health officials on a tour of the island’s main hospital in St. George’s, bringing Christmas greetings to patients, staff and visitors.

The Prime Minster, along with Finance Minister Nazim Burke and Health Minister Ann Peters, were accompanied by officials such as Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health, Isaac Bhagwan; Director of Medical Services, Dr. Kester Dragon; and Deputy Director of Nursing Services, Hazelyn Benjamin. 

During the three-hour-long visit, the Grenadian leader went from bed to bed and floor to floor, meeting and greeting patients, doctors and nurses. 

As Mr. Thomas and the team moved about the hospital wards, several persons stopped him to express how pleased they were with the level of care and attention given to them by the healthcare providers.

Many people also stopped and embraced the island’s Health Minister, while commending and encouraging her to continue to do her best to improve the level of healthcare services.

One such person was former Foreign Affairs Minister and Member of Parliament Dr. Raphael Fletcher. He congratulated both Minister Peters and Prime Minister Thomas for the excellent work they are doing. 

As the delegation conducted their visit, they also took the time to consider ways in which the patients can continue to reap more health benefits and of improving the working environments for staff to perform at their optimum level.

Already the Ministry of Health has outlined several new projects to come on stream in 2012 that will improve the delivery of services and patient outcomes.

These include the construction of the General Hospital’s second phase, and refurbishment and expansion of several buildings and areas such as the Laboratory, Duncan’s Ward, and the O’Doughty building.

In 2011, the Health Ministry undertook several major initiatives at the General Hospital. Among them were the construction of a disabled and emergency access ramp; refurbishment of the X-ray Unit (waiting area); and conversion of the former nursing school into office space and ward in preparation for refurbishment of some sections of the main hospital facility.

Following the tour of the General Hospital, the Prime Minister-led delegation visited the Home for the Aged at Richmond Hill, St. George’s.

SOURCE: Ministry of Health/Keville Frederick

Sports Personalities show appreciation for support

NEW YORK - Two of Grenada’s young sports competitors have expressed appreciation to those who have supported them during 2011.

Swimming sensation Oreoluwa Cherebin and figure skater Oliya Clarkson have joined with national cricket coach Dwain Gill in conveying appreciation for the support this year and best wishes in 2012.

Cherebin, who will turn 14 this month, represented Grenada at regional and international swimming championships including the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) and Commonwealth Youth Games while Clarkson, 14, has been impressive at competitions in Italy and Turkey.

Oreoluwa Cherebin: Swimmer

In this season of goodwill and peace, I will like to take time out to say special thanks to all those who supported me during the year. This year has been very busy and challenging for me as a swimmer adjusting to school, traveling to several Championships and training. Without the help of God, my parents, coaches, family, the Ministry of Sports, Grenada Olympic Committee and supporters I would not have been able to make it. Thanks also to the Media for supporting me and all athletes. Merry Christmas and have a Christ filled New Year.

Oliya Clarkson: Figure Skater

As the year comes to an end, I would like to thank the Prime Minister, the Grenada Olympic Committee, Minister of Sports, Mr. Derrick James and Michael Bascombe, my parents, family and friends, coaches and Grenadians all over the world for their support and encouragement. To all, I wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. God bless you all.  

Dwain Gill: Cricket Coach

Happy Christmas and a productive New Year to all cricketers in particular and sports people in general.  Looking forward to helping you achieve your goals in 2012.

Aunty Tek was “one of a kind’’

By Lincoln Depradine

St. George’s, December 15, 2011 – Grenada is mourning the loss of another national icon. Renowned folklorist, Aunty Tek Phillip, died Wednesday at the age of 85.

“The death of Aunty Tek is a monumental lost to our cultural community. Aunty Tek was a genuine cultural icon, truly one of a kind, and she cannot be replaced,’’ said Senator Arley Gill, Minister of State in the Ministry of Tourism, Civil Aviation and Culture.

Sen. Gill, who has special responsibility for culture, expressed “heartfelt and deep condolence’’ to the family and friends of Aunty Tek on behalf of his ministry and on behalf of the Grenada government.

“Aunty Tek has been an immeasurable treasure to culture not just in Grenada but also in the Caribbean,’’ said Sen. Gill, who noted that her death came less than two months after the passing of Anthony “Jericho’’ Greenidge.

Greenidge’s contribution to media, sports and culture evoked an outpouring of national grief.

Born Thelma Ermintrude Knights, Aunty Tek adopted the name, Phillip, after marriage.

A well-known resident of Belmont, St. George, Aunty Tek was a pioneer among women in Grenada, breaking long-held stereotypes about women.

She was among the first women to own and drive a car in Grenada. She was a teacher and principal, as well as a leading Grenadian and Caribbean stage actor.

Aunty Tek – founder  of her own junior theatre company and of the now defunct Bee Wee Ballet drama group – was an undisputed master of folk tales, especially the “Ole Nancy Stories.’’ As a raconteur, she is perhaps rivaled only by the late Jamaican folklorist, Louise “Miss Lou’’ Bennett –Coverley and Trinidad-born and Grenada-raised, Paul Keens-Douglas.

Keens-Douglas’ younger brother, Richardo, is among the best-known of a current generation of storytellers.

A graduate of the Teachers’ Training College in Trinidad, Aunty Tek once worked as Chief Social and Community Development Officer for Education and Culture for the Grenada government.

When the government of Prime Minister Tillman Thomas hosted the first Spice Word Festival in 2010, Aunty Tek was honoured and presented with a special award. She performed at both the opening and closing of the inaugural festival.

In 2011, the festival was renamed after Aunty Tek. In making the announcement of the festival’s renaming, Sen. Gill said the aim was to “immortalize’’ Aunty Tek’s name.

The 2011 Aunty Tek Spice Word Festival was held from October 18 – 23.

“While we mourn the passing of Aunty Tek, we are pleased that we were able to honour her by naming the Spice Word Festival after her. She was very appreciative of the honour,’’ Sen. Gill said.

Grenada's PM Thomas updates nationals in the UK

LONDON, UK, November 2, 2011 - The Prime Minister of Grenada The Honourable Tillman Thomas, on Tuesday evening addressed a packed audience in the United Kingdom, at the Novotel London West, Hammersmith International Centre.

The Grenadian Diaspora from areas in and around London, Reading, Manchester, and elsewhere, listened attentively to the Prime Minister’s presentation on the status of the Grenadian Economy and achievements of his Government in nation-building - among them:

1.       Improved Management of the Economy recognised by major regional and international organisations

2.       Revitalization of the Agricultural Sector

3.       Successful negotiation of a maritime boundary delimitation Treaty with the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago

The Prime Minister mentioned that though the country was also suffering from the impact of the Global Financial Crisis, his Government was seeking ways to lower the unemployment rate and seek partnership with friendly Governments in order to improve the state of the economy and the well-being of the population.

In looking to the future, the Prime Minister mentioned the five transformational sectors for economic activity and job creation:

1.       Health, Wellness and Education Services – to include – a new Comprehensive agreement with the St George’s University to establish a new Teaching Hospital and an agreement with the University of the West Indies to establish its Open Campus in Grenada.

2.       Energy/Renewable Energy – Agreements to provide a lower cost of electricity and exploit the benefits of Geothermal energy

3.       Agribusiness – New and Creative Cocoa and poultry farms

4.       Tourism/Hospitality – Efforts to deliver a flagship hotel

5.       Information Communication Technology –  Centre for Excellence/to ensure communications technology reaches the wider population

The Prime Minister informed the audience that work had begun on the development of the Grenville Market as well as the St George’s Market, and of new initiatives including a chocolate factory at Diamond in St Mark’s and a creative thrust in food production and processing.

The Prime Minister was accompanied by Foreign Minister Hon I J Karl Hood, who addressed the meeting with an update on the services to be provided by the Office of Diaspora Affairs. The Minister expressed his appreciation to the UK Diaspora for their cooperation since the start of the Diaspora Initiative and their participation in the recent Diaspora Conference in Grenada. He also commended the Diaspora Youth Forum for their involvement and encouraged the audience to continue the partnership with their homeland.

The Minister made a call to the Grenadian Diaspora in the United Kingdom for participation in the 2012 Homecoming scheduled for August 5^th – 18^th 2012, and also for support to the Grenada Team at the London 2012 Olympic Games.

The Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, respectively, received questions and comments from the audience who complemented the Government on its achievements, and appreciation for the regular updates received from the High Commission.

Questions posed included the status of Renal Dialysis in Grenada; the Relocation of the Grenada Public Library; the growth of the Nutmeg Industry; greater involvement of the diaspora in supporting Education and Youth; and decentralization of tourism projects, among others.  

The UK Diaspora was informed that the Government was ready and willing  to engage in the process of nation-building by inviting them to share their expertise, talent and knowledge in the various sectors of the economy.

The Prime Minister and delegation will return to Grenada on Wednesday November 2^nd 2011, following participation at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Perth, Australia October 28 – 30, 2011.

SOURCE: High Commission for Grenada, London, United Kingdom

Grenada Government announces incentives for athletes

Fellow Grenadians, during the past weeks, our international athletes have demonstrated great prowess on the world track and field circuit, bringing a sense of immeasurable pride and joy to all Grenadians as well as the wider Caribbean.

Their outstanding performances on the track both in Daegu and Europe have also brought incredible recognition to us as a small island developing state.

The exploits of our athletes today, is due to the collaborative efforts of a number of stake holders particularly during the last 25 years. In this context we will like acknowledge the contributions of the Grenada Olympic Committee, the Grenada Athletics Association, the Secondary Schools Principal Association, the Grenada Track and Field Coaches Association, the Grenada Union of Teachers and Speed Zone in the development of these athletes.    

For small countries like ours, opportunities to celebrate athletic excellence of this magnitude are very few. Therefore, when such an unprecedented opportunity like this one presents itself, it must be embraced with gratitude and duly rewarded.

 As a result, based on the recommendations of some of the afore mentioned stakeholders, together with the timely guidance of the National Sports Policy, the Cabinet of Grenada has decided on a reward and incentive package for our athlete’s world class performance at 2011 World Athletics Championship in Daegu, South Korea.

 These are as follows:

Ø  Renaming of Lagoon Road to Kirani James Boulevard

Ø  Provision of a parcel of land to both Kirani and Rondel

Ø  Provision of a home for Kirani’s family

Ø  Provision of housing assistance to Janelle’s parent

Ø  Provision of housing assistance to coach Joseph

Ø  Appointment as Sports Ambassadors with Official Passport

Ø  Commissioning of a commemorative stamp with Rondell and Kirani

Ø  Issuance of an invitation to Alleyne Francique to attend the ceremony and the naming of the roundabout at the top of Lagoon Road in his name.

In due course the special committee will inform the nation as to the plans for our athletes home coming.

As we forge ahead with our new vision and road map for sports development; the implementation of our sports policy, lighting of major playing fields, formation of parish sports councils, the implementation of Physical Education in the curriculum in Primary and Secondary schools, a playing field maintenance programme, and the re-construction of the athletics and football stadium.

We are convinced that more of our athletes in all sporting disciplines will emerge to take centre stage on the world circuit.

In closing, I leave these words of encouragement to our sports administrators, coaches, trainers and athletes from J.J. Goldwag author; “the greatest source of success is the belief that it can happen and your will to do the work to make it happen.”

May God continue to bless our nation!

 National Speech Athletes by mikebas