Carriacou & Petite Martinique Affairs Newsletter - Vol. 1, Issue 3 (April - June 2009)

The Workings of the

MINISTRY OF CARRIACOU & PETITE MARTINIQUE AFFAIRS NEWSLETTER Volume 1, Issue 3 April – June 2009

“inside the beautiful twin isle parish”

Successful Launch of

GYUP PROGRAMME IN CARRIACOU

The Grenada Government has a clear vision to create a better nation for all citizens, says Honourable Patrick Simmons.

The Minister of Youth Empowerment, Sports & Culture made the comment in an address at the official launch in Carriacou of the Grenada Youth Upliftment Programme.

More than 100 participants, including 21 from Petite Martinique, attended the successful launch of the programme on Wednesday, March 25, at the Resource Centre.

Mr. Simmons said that despite challenges, the Government of Prime Minister Tillman Thomas plans to forge ahead with enhancing the living conditions of all citizens. He also implored on the young people to maximize the opportunities they are being given with initiatives such as the Youth Upliftment Programme.

Other speakers at the event included local evangelist, Pastor Junior McNeil, and Anderson Matheson, Personal Assistant to the Minister of Carriacou and Petite Martinique Affairs.

Pastor McNeil told the programme participants that God is important in their journey to empowerment and self-improvement. He urged them to take the training opportunity seriously, set themselves goals and be humble.

The Personal Assistant advised the participants that they should grasp the chance at training, which takes into account the varied interests of young people.

The Grenada Youth Upliftment Programme, which has four components, offers skills training in areas such as agriculture, cosmetology, building technology and hospitality arts.

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PRIME MINISTER HOLDS TOWNHALL MEETINGS IN CARRIACOU AND PETITE MARTINIQUE Grenada's Prime Minister, Tillman Thomas and members of his Cabinet staged successful meetings in Carriacou on Thursday and Petite Martinique on Friday. The meetings addressed several issues of concern to the islands and the State of Grenada, including the recently announced stimulus package.

difficulties can be blamed on the international economic downturn, it was also the result of “reckless spending” by the previous Government, which spent EC $37M in the 60 days prior to the July 8th 2008 general elections and left a Treasury with EC $53M in unpaid claims.

At the Carriacou meeting, Prime Minister Thomas, who was accompanied by eight members of his cabinet, told residents that while Grenada was going through a difficult period, the recovery process will be hastened “if we work together and increase our production.”

His position was echoed by Finance Minister Nazim Burke, who told the gathering the Government had a responsibility to make certain that the small businesses owed by the Government did not fail and further complicate the unemployment crisis facing the country.

“Brothers and sisters, we have come out of disasters and difficult circumstances before and we will do it again. It is in these difficult times that we should rally together and work in unity to ensure that when the recovery comes we can all enjoy the benefits,” the Prime Minister told the meeting in Carriacou, which was made up of more than 200 people from the island.

He noted that while the poor state of Grenada 's economy and the current

“This is why we moved the unpaid claims or domestic debt we found in the Treasury from the EC $53M to EC $12M.We have to ensure that these businesses which employee a number if people do not go out of business and plunge the country into further difficulty,” the Finance Minister said.

He said among the projects that the Government is looking into for Carriacou was an airport facility that provided night landing facilities and can accommodate larger aircrafts and more flights into the island. He said this was a prerequisite for the development of tourism and attracting a large hotel to Carriacou. Both meetings focused on plans for the agriculture and tourism prospects of the islands.

In the case of Petite Martinique, where Prime Minister Thomas was accompanied by his Cabinet colleague, Minister for Carriacou and Petite Martinique Affairs, Senator George Prime, much emphasis was placed on the development of fish processing.

One businessman present at the meeting, who has already started processing salted fish on the island, presented the Prime Minister with a sample of his products, including a small parcel of flour also made in Petite Martinique. The Prime Minister welcomed the presentation saying “its speaks exactly to what our Government has been promoting.”

“I am on record as saying that the people of Petite Martinique have a wonderful opportunity to provide us with products that are manufactured right here,” he told the more that 100 people gathered at the RC School in Petite Martinique.

Another issue that came up for discussion was sand mining on Petite Martinique. The Minister of Carriacou and Petite Martinique, Senator the Honourable George Prime committed to discussing with a committee set up to look into the issue, to come up with a solution.

The Prime Minister, who made the trip to Carriacou and Petite Martinique by the Osprey Lines, took the opportunity to tour the school, the police station and the medical center to see first hand the state of the facilities.

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PUBLIC OFFICERS IN CARRIACOU & PETITE MARTINIQUE BRIEFED ON PUBLIC SECTOR MODERNIZATION PROGRAMME As Government takes steps to improve its service delivery to Grenadians, public officers in Carriacou and Petite Martinique were briefed on the Grenada Public Sector Modernization Change Management Programme.

A five member delegation, led by Cabinet Secretary Elizabeth Henry-Greenidge held meetings in Carriacou and Petite Martinique.

One of the main presenters, Policy Development Officer in the Prime Minister's Ministry, Merina Jessamy, highlighted the strategies that, if implemented, will help to transform the public service.

She said that cabinet has approved four priorities for

change. She listed them as effective performance appraisal & corporate planning, development of a reporting and accountability framework, clarification of the senior managers board and the realignment of the structure of the public service and the services it deliver.

Ms. Jessamy said it is important for a public officer to understand and demonstrate commitment to Grenada. She said public sector employees must move from emotion based service and to value based service and enhance individual and departmental performance through training.

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Carriacou & Petite Martinique Affairs, Bernadette Lendore-Sylvester was also present at the meeting.

A SUCCESSFUL SITTING OF THE THIRD YOUTH PARLIAMENT Young people in Carriacou & Petite Martinique showcased their debating skills as the Youth Department within the Ministry of Carriacou & Petite Martinique Affairs staged a successful sitting of the third Youth Parliament on Tuesday, June 30th, 2009 at the Carriacou Health Services.

They debated the topic: “Be it resolved that persons under the age of eighteen should be subjected to night time curfew as a means of reducing crime�.

The Government side led by youth Prime Minister Keishroy DeRoche argued that the implementation of a night time curfew will help to curb violence and instill good moral values among young people while Opposition Leader, Andal Bartholomew argued that it could have negative results.

Minister for Carriacou & Petite Martinique Affairs Senator the Hon. George Prime congratulated the youth parliamentarians for participating in the activity as, he said, it exposes them to the real world of Parliament.

Among the persons in attendance were Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Carriacou & Petite Martinique Affairs Bernadette LendoreSylvester and Parliamentary Representative Hon. Elvin Nimrod.

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E H

I F L E S Y T H Y T L LE A

CARRIACOU CELEBRATES ANOTHER CENTURIAN It appears that the 13-square-mile island of Carriacou holds the secret to living 100 years and beyond.

Just a month after one of its residents Joseph Jerome celebrated 102 years, Gertrude Bartholomew of L'Esterre marked her 101st birthday.

Ms. Bartholomew, who has outlived her only child, celebrated her birthday in style on March th 25 , surrounded by her adoring and loving grandchildren.

A mass officiated by Father Augustine Boateng of the Roman Catholic Faith was held at Ms. Bartholomew's home. Father Boateng prayed for God's blessing to continue pouring on her life.

Minister for Carriacou and Petite Martinique Affairs, Senator the Hon. George Prime, along with Social Worker Susan Peters, shared in the momentous occasion.

Minister Prime, who presented a food basket to Ms. Bartholomew, congratulated her and noted the important role that senior citizens play in the development of the country.

Ms. Bartholomew's age has not prevented her from rearing her pig and doing chores around the house.

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Education Department said Thanks to Literacy Trainers Illiteracy is no longer a major issue for the schools of Carriacou & Petite Martinique, thanks to the work of Literacy Specialists Elizabeth Nonweiler and Jackie Day of England.

The two have completed a three year period of training teachers on the island, in the use of synthetic phonics.

Area Education Officer Gertrude Simon-Niles commended the trainers for their work, saying it resulted in a significant difference in the ability of students to read and write. Mrs. Simon-Niles, who played a pivotal role in the training, was speaking at a luncheon hosted by the Education Department within the Ministry of Carriacou and Petite Martinique Affairs in honour of the trainers.

Minister for Carriacou & Petite Martinique Affairs, Sen. Hon. George Prime who had the opportunity to hear four year old students of the Windward Pre-primary School read, commended the specialists for their efforts. “We believe this programme has changed the lives of some of our students because we now live in a world where communication is critical for our development and our advancement. In fact the world will be a more interesting place when people can communicate effectively,� he said.

Teachers from various schools, who attended the luncheon expressed their appreciation to the specialists. The training was supported by the British House of Commons and the British High Commission, among others, with special mention of Eileen Measey, a British national who resides in Carriacou.

The problem of illiteracy in secondary schools became chronic during the implementation of universal education in the 1990s.

Students were promoted from the primary school system without meeting the required competence in literacy.

Minister of State in the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Sports & Culture, Sen. Hon. Arly Gill, also attended the luncheon.

Joann Lambert & Leron Gabriel Performs well at

2008 Common Entrance Exams

The L'Esterre R.C. School and Harvey Vale Government School in Carriacou are in celebratory mood after two of their students placed in the first 60 in this year's Common Entrance Exams.

Topping the performance for Carriacou was L'Esterre R.C. student, Joann Lambert who placed 16th in the State with an average of 127.03. Lambert attributed her performance to the support of her parents, teachers and God.

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Her teacher, Lyandra Stiell said she was not surprised at her performance since she has always been a focused student.

L e r o n G a b r i e l f r o m H a r v e y Va l e Government placed 52nd with an average of 123.40.

A total of one hundred and twelve students from Carriacou & Petite Martinique sat this year's Exams.

MAJOR ACHIEVEMENTS OF

THE MINISTRY OF CARRIACOU & PETITE MARTINIQUE FROM JULY 8TH, 2008 Local Government Introduction: Plans for the introduction of local government in Carriacou and Petite Martinique are gathering momentum, as two in a series of public consultations were held where the people shared their ideas on how they would like to see local government implemented.

Two of the main points coming out of the consultations were that the council should not be an advisory body as proposed by Professor Simeon McIntosh, Dean of the Faculty of Law University of the West Indies Cave Hill Campus, who prepared a working document but one with some form of autonomy over specified services and the

Conference in the Freeport, Bahamas. His attendance at the Conference, hosted by the Government of the Bahamas, was critical.

The four day conference looked at a broad range of issues including identifying resources for local government during global recession, strengthening local leadership, governance and finances, strategic partnership to improve local services and effective local government in small States.

It is hoped that local government according to Section 107 (1) of the Grenada Constitution which states that “there shall be a Council for Carriacou and Petite Martinique, which shall be the principal organ of local government in these islands will be introduced by mid 2010 when the bill will be presented to parliament.

Public Works Equipment: In keeping with government's policy to improve the road network and general infrastructure of the island, the Public Works Department within the Ministry of Carriacou & Petite Martinique Affairs received two new machines, a backhoe and a stone roller.

functions and powers of the council should be spelt out so it does not duplicate or confuse with the services provided by the Ministry or central government.

And to add, gain knowledge on the working of local Government Minister for Carriacou & Petite Martinique Affairs Senator Hon. George Prime along with Permanent Secretary Bernadette Lendore-Sylvester

and Public Relations Officer Deanna Isaac attended the 2nd Regional Local Government Conference and consultation in Montego Bay, Jamaica on December 1st and 2nd, 2008 where a regional policy and cooperation framework on local governance and democracy was adopted.

Then, in May 2009 Minister Prime was among five hundred and fifty delegates from 48 countries who attended the 5th Commonwealth Local Government

The machines were purchased from Trintrac Ltd. based in Trinidad and the company's Managing Director Andrew Bernard and Technical Support & Control Quality Department Manager were on the island to provide training to the operators and promised to provide the necessary technical support for the upkeep of the machines.

Minister for Carriacou & Petite Martinique Affairs, Senator the Hon. George Prime said that these machines will make the department more self reliant and ready to deal with the infrastructure development of the thirteen (13) square miles island.

The machines cost approximately US$100,000.00.

UNESCO Secretary General Visit A high level United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) delegation led by Director General Koichiro Matsuura paid a visit to the thirteen (13) square miles island of Carriacou for the first time in the organization's 64 year history.

As part of his visit, Mr. Matsuura was given a tour of the Grand-Bay Archaeological Site, which government hopes to develop as a tourist attraction.

Mr. Matsuura and his delegation were also given a tour of the Carriacou Museum where he was able to view some of the artifacts unearthed at the Grand-Bay Archaeological Site and the rich cultural heritage of the people of Carriacou & Petite Martinique.

Mr. Matsuura was accompanied by Victor Sologaistao: Chief of Latin America and Caribbean Section, Sector for External A f f a i r s a n d C o o p e r a t i o n , To s i n Animashawun: Assistant Liaison Officer, Kwame Boafo: Director, UNESCO Kingston Cluster and Lincoln Campbell: UN Local Security Assistant.

Minister for Carriacou & Petite Martinique Affairs, Senator the Hon. George Prime describes the visit by the Director General of UNESCO as historical and looks forward to working with UNESCO to develop the Twin Isle Constituency.

Four Major Community Development Projects by GREP The Grenada Rural Enterprise Project (GREP) developed four major infrastructural projects that will aid in the

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development of the thirteen square miles island. In the village of Harvey Vale close to the basketball court a Human Resource Development Centre was constructed, this the community hopes will be used as the main area of activities.

Over on the Paradise Beach a toilet and washroom facility was completed, this facility is necessary as the beach is one of the most scenic on the island that is frequently visited by tourists. GREP has also focused on road development as over in Dumfries 2000ft. of road was constructed and farmers, residents and businesses

operating in that area expressed relief after walking and driving on a dirt road for many years.

The sister island of Petite Martinique was not left out as an Information Technology Centre was built on top of the primary school on the island. The four projects cost in over $1M EC dollars.

undertake the relevant tasks required to recommence the nursery in Carriacou.

The propagating of adequate quantities of seedlings for utilization by the farming community has been identified as one area needing immediate attention. The Ministry of Carriacou & Petite Martinique Affairs has taken this very seriously, therefore every effort is being made to ensure that a wide variety of seedlings are available to farmers and the general public at the commencement of the planting season.

Steel pan introduced to schools in Carriacou & Petite Martinique With one of government's main thrust being to develop all aspect of Carriacou's rich cultural heritage, the Division of Culture within the Ministry of Carriacou & Petite Martinique Affairs hired well renowned panist Leroy Sylvester to teach steel pan music to the students of the primary and secondary schools.

Private Sector Partners with Division of Sports to re-introduce table tennis The sport of table tennis has been reintroduced in Carriacou. A number of corporate citizens both from Carriacou and Grenada have contributed financially towards the purchasing of seven (7) table tennis boards and accessories.

The boards, placed at schools and community centres throughout the island, were officially handed over to the schools and community representatives on Friday November 14th, 2008 at the Hillsborough Community Centre.

Minister of Carriacou and Petite Martinique Affairs, Senator the Hon. George Prime who was present at the ceremony said it is good when the private sector can collaborate with Government in improving the well-being of citizens. He further stated that sports play a critical role in maintaining a healthy life.

Minister Prime was high in praise for Sports Officer, Joel Lendore who has been working steadfastly to ensure the young people of the two islands are actively involved in participating in different sporting disciplines.

It is hoped that this well lead to the development of a number of bands, which would then see a panorama competition on the 13 square miles island.

Plant Propagation Training More plants are available to the farmers of Carriacou and Petite Martinique as two persons Cindy Teka and Wilford Allard were on assignment at the Mirabeau Agricultural Station.

Special commendation was given to former table tennis player Dennis Thomas who was quite instrumental in getting citizens to donate the tennis boards and accessories.

Some of the sponsors of the table tennis boards include: Christopher Mills, Kent Joseph: the Managing Director of Excel Plaza, John “Barba” Gabriel, John “Oscar” Blair, Bobbys' Tyre Mart and Jerome McQuilkin of Carriacou Development Corporation.

Practice sessions are held at the Hillsborough Community Centre everyday of the week.

They were exposed to all aspects of plant propagation, which enabled them to

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Meanwhile, it is the hope of the Ministry to introduce a number of cultural development sessions in the schools which would include poetry writing, drama and big drum dancing, with the aim of ensuring the preservation of the island's unique cultural heritage.

Free transportation of the tennis boards and accessories from Trinidad to Carriacou was contributed by Stephen “Scarper” Gay via the boat Mary C.

SPORTS MINISTRY OF CARRIACOU & PETITE MARTINIQUE AFFAIRS SPORTS DIVISION AWARDS OUTSTANDING ATHLETES A presentation ceremony was held at the Ministry of Carriacou & Petite Martinique Affairs in Beausejour where certificates were handed out to the athletes who participated in this year's National Inter-primary Championship and Inter-col by the Minister for Carriacou & Petite Martinique Affairs, Sen. the Hon. George Prime and Sports Officer for Carriacou, Joel Lendore.

Among the athletes were Mickel Joseph who won both the 100m and 200m under 13 boys race, Reanna Allen who placed first in the under 11 girls Cricket Ball Throw, Andia Douglas who placed first in the Discuss Junior Girls Competition and Ryss Albert who took first place in both the High Jump and Shot-Put. Senator Prime told the athletes that they should use their gift to “reach for the sky.” He committed the Ministry to do “all in its power to assist” in their development.

The presentation was done to motivate the children to be better athletes, with the aim of representing their school and ultimately their country.

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2009 GILBERT BRATHWAITE INTER-PRIMARY & INTER-SECONDARY CRICKET TOURNAMENT With cricket being one of the leading sports in the Caribbean, the Division of Sports within the Ministry of Carriacou & Petite Martinique Affairs is ensuring that students at the six primary and two secondary schools on the island are exposed to the Sport.

The Division of Sports organized Annual Gilbert Brathwaite Inter-primary and Inter-secondary Cricket Tournament was launched on Friday, May 22nd, 2009 with an official opening ceremony.

Sports Officer, Joel Lendore in his remarks said while his Division is committed to sports development, young players should balance sports with academics and remain focused.

Area Education Officer, Gertrude Simon-Niles challenged schools to balance their expenditure on sports by ensuring that no sport suffers.

The opening ceremony was attended by Cosnel McIntosh, the initiator of the Tournament and Anderson Matheson, Personal Assistant to the Minister for Carriacou & Petite Martinique Affairs.

Six female students participated in the Competition, with four coming from the Mt. Pleasant Government School and the other two from Petite Martinique.

However, at the end of Competition, the Dover Government School was victorious with their player Emmanuel Stewart being awarded the best batsman.

CARRIACOU & PETITE MARTINIQUE SWIMMERS MADE SISTER ISLES PROUD Forty athletes who represented the twin-island parish of Carriacou & Petite Martinique at the 2009 First Caribbean International Bank's Primary Schools Swim Meet on June 5th and 6th, made the islands proud.

All expenses for the teams participation was covered by the Ministry of Carriacou & Petite Martinique Affairs.

This is despite not having a swimming pool in which to conduct training sessions.

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Twenty-three teams entered the competition in which Carriacou and Petite Martinique which registered separately. At the end of the swimming meet, Petite Martinique captured the third position, followed by Carriacou in fourth.

Jay Benjamin of Petite Martinique was rated the second best male swimmer.

The meet was won by Westmorland with Alpha Junior placing second

TURF WICKET CONSTRUCTED AT MINI-STADIUM More cricket matches will be played in Carriacou as the Division of Sports within the Ministry of Carriacou and Petite Martinique Affairs has constructed a turf wicket on the grounds of the mini-stadium in Lauriston.

Michael Smith from Grenada was responsible for the construction of the new wicket.

He is assisted by three persons from Carriacou. The wicket was constructed with input from the M i n i s t r y o f Yo u t h Empowerment, Sports & Culture.

According to Sports Officer Joel Lendore the construction of this wicket will boost the sport, as it should lead to greater involvement by young people and the island can now benefit from some of the invitational games from international teams.

TURF WICKET AT CULTURAL & SPORTING CENTRE OFFICIALLY COMMISSIONED The development of cricket on the sister islands of Carriacou & Petite Martinique is on a upward trend with the construction of a turf wicket at the Cultural & Sporting Centre in Lauriston. The wicket which was a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Carriacou & Petite Martinique Affairs and Ministry of Sports was officially commissioned on Sunday June 21st, 2009.

For Sports Officer within the Ministry of Carriacou & Petite Martinique

Michael Smith from Grenada and the men who worked along with him and said he will work to develop similar wickets at the playing fields in Mt. Pleasant and Petite Martinique.

Affairs, Joel Lendore it was a special moment as he recalled at a meeting of the management team of the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Sports & Culture the idea for the turf wicket was thought of and today it is a reality. Lendore further added that this will boost the sport of cricket.

Following the commissioning of the turf wicket, the first match to be played at the centre, which was the final of the Republic Bank Domestic Cricket Tournament between Mt. Royal and L'Esterre was played, Mt. Royal was victorious.

Minister for Carriacou & Petite Martinique Affairs Sen. the Hon George Prime dressed in his cricket regalia and who once played cricket recognized the work of contractor,

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Mt. Royal Champions of the 2009 Republic Bank Cricket Tournament

Minister for Carriacou & Petite Martinique Affairs Senator the Hon. George Prime was among persons at the Cultural & Sporting Centre in Lauriston to witness the magnificent victory of the Mt. Royal Cricket Club at the final of the Republic Bank Domestic Cricket Tournament. Mt. Royal who batted first scored a total of 210 runs while L'Esterre was only able to reply with 166.

In delivering brief remarks at the closing ceremony of the tournament, Minister Prime said that the tournament shows what can be accomplished through partnerships as the government provides the facilities, Republic Bank the sponsorship and the Carriacou United Cricket Board responsible for organizing and running the tournament.

He said that the government views sports as critical for the development of our people especially young people as it provides an outlet for them to engage in positive activities.

General Manager of Credit of Republic Bank Anthony Clarke said the bank was happy to be associated with the development of cricket on the sister islands and pledged their continued support.

Also attending the final was Cecil Greenidge, President of the Grenada Cricket Association.

Meanwhile, some of the outstanding players during the tournament included Aldon Moses, Milton Joseph, Enroy Modeste and Livingston Andrew from the Mt. Royal Cricket Team who was awarded the best player overall he was given the Minister's bat among other prizes.

Kayak Selected to be a part of

Grenada National Netball Under 23 Team Diana Gittens, a netball player from Carriacou, has become the first person from the Sister Island to be selected to represent Grenada on the National under 23 netball team.

A recent graduate of Hillsborough Secondary School, Diana, travelled with the team to Nevis on a one week tour. Gittens was awarded during her graduation ceremony for her outstanding performance in netball during her five years at the school. She will be playing in the position of wing attack.

According to Sports Officer Joel Lendore, her selection should serve as an encouragement to other players to excel in the sport.

The Ministry of Carriacou & Petite Martinique Affairs led by Senator the Hon. George Prime is providing support for her travel. “I want to encourage Diana to do her best with the team. She has earned her selection and we in Carriacou hope that her contribution to the Grenada team while on tour will bring success to the team,� said Minister Prime.

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Petite Martinique

Whitsuntide Regatta 2009

People from throughout the Grenadines, Carriacou and Grenada converged on the island of Petite Martinique for three days as the 400 acres island held its annual Whitsuntide Regatta. Some of the boats that participated in the Regatta included Now for Now, Solo, Margeto and Red Bull.

It was not only about boat racing as a number of onshore activities were held such as beer drinking and whining competition. The Regatta would not have been a success without the input of the Ministry of Carriacou & Petite Martinique Affairs and a number of corporate sponsors such as LIME.

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May Day Celebrations in Carriacou a success Senator the Hon. George Prime has called on workers in Carriacou and Petite Martinique to develop innovative skills which will help improve productivity in the workplace.

He said while government sees the labour movement as a critical partner in development, employees must let the quality of their work be the measuring stick by which they are judged, so they can be considered a valuable asset to the workplace.

In what was seen as a May Day celebration with a difference, the Minister responsible for Carriacou & Petite Martinique Affairs shared the day with workers for the first time in many years as the previous Minister had not attended the celebrations in the past few years. In his remarks, Minister Prime told workers they should not take their jobs for granted.

The May Day celebration also heard messages of solidarity from the various trade unions. The event was followed by a march through the streets of Hillsborough which culminated with eating and merriment at the Hillsborough Government School grounds.

He said employers are placing great priority on workers with innovative skills, who can help to increase productivity.

Parliamentary Representative for Carriacou and Petite Martinique, Hon. Elvin Nimrod was listed on the programme, he failed to show up.

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D Y E V T E I L N O U P M M E M NT O C SIX FAMILIES IN CARRIACOU BENEFIT FROM HOUSING PROGRAMME Six families in Carriacou now have better housing as a result of the government's Home Improvement Programme.

Affairs, Senator Hon. George Prime, complimented Housing Coordinators Patricia Paterson and Christopher Samuel for overseeing the rebuilding of the homes. He noted that the assistance of the business community and contractors demonstrate that community spirit is alive in Carriacou.

Speaking at the handing over ceremony, Minister for Housing, Lands & Community Development, Hon. Alleyne Walker said this is not the end of the assistance. He pointed

The six, Elizabeth Bubb, Henry Lambert, Casintha Stafford, Zilla Lawrence, Donnette Prime and Kenson Peters, were handed the keys to their new houses at an official ceremony at the Resource Centre in Hillsborough.

out that while the Ministry received 20 requests from Carriacou, priority was given to assisting most vulnerable.

In his remarks Minister for Carriacou & Petite Martinique

Under the programme, the materials were provided by the government, while the houses were built through community help led by Karl Benjamin, Julien Calliste and others.

Minister Prime emphasized that need has no colour and “government must do things for the people's development.” He said, “the NDC administration is not concerned about who support which political party before they can get materials or a house built.”

The recipients all expressed their gratitude to the government. One recipient, Henry “Mawi” Lambert, said he is “happy that he has his own key after living under vines” since 2004 when his home was destroyed

by Hurricane Ivan.

Program Co-ordinator of the Housing Programme Kallan Simon was also present at the ceremony.

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GREP SKILLS TRAINING PROGRAMMES DUBBED A SUCCESS

Forty-two persons in Carriacou are now better equipped in computer skills, food preparation and sewing thanks to the Grenada Rural Enterprise Programme (GREP) who sponsored skills training in those three areas over a three months period.

It is now hoped that the participants will put what they have learnt into good use as this was implored to them

by Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Carriacou & Petite Martinique Affairs Bernadette Lendore-Sylvester and Personal Assistant to the Minister Anderson Matheson during the closing ceremony for the programmes.

GREP Coordinator for Carriacou and Petite Martinique, Troylyn Simon in delivering a speech on behalf of Coordinator Edward Fedee encouraged the participants to use the skills they have gained to better their lives and that of their families.

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The tutors for the programmes were Davon Baker Computer, Beverly Bartholomew - Food and Stephanie Antoine - Sewing who all expressed gratitude to GREP for giving them the opportunity to pass on their skills to others. However, for Ms. Bartholomew it was twofold as GREP also sponsored the repair of the food laboratory at the Hillsborough Secondary School to the tune of $13,000.00.

Meanwhile, GREP has been involved in infrastructure development on the sister islands through the construction of toilet and bathroom facility on Paradise Beach, 2000ft. of farm roads at Dumfries, Resource Centres at Harvey Vale and Petite Martinique.

MINISTER PRIME PAYS TRIBUTE TO HISTORIAN EDWARD KENT I had the honour and good fortune more recently to witness the historical society award to him for his sterling contribution. And there I learnt 2 things: that he was one of the central figures in the Carriacou Historical Society. He had an obsession with history and that he spent long hours and numerous weekends at the museum to make it what it is today and I want to now add a third, members did not know they were planning Edward's send off, but also tomorrow is planned to no one.

It is with profound sadness and a sense of obligation, that as Minister for Carriacou & Petite Martinique Affairs on behalf of the people of Carriacou & Petite Martinique I want to pay tribute to the life of Dr. Edward Kent, OBE. Dr. Kent had devoted enormous energies, time and resources to document the rich cultural heritage of our beloved 13 square miles island. This he done through his membership as the historian with the Carriacou Historical Society of which he was one of the founding members.

With great insight, profound dedication and an uncommon empathy, Dr. Kent told the story of the people of Carriacou. His contribution was not only in preserving the cultural heritage of our island but also in agricultural management through the Craigston Lime Factory and cattle breeding and for this in 2007 he received the Doctor of Laws (LLD) from the University of the West Indies.

I have been asked by the Prime Minister, the Hon. Tillman Thomas to express sorrow on behalf of the Government and people of Grenada. He asked that it be placed on record, the government's appreciation for the invaluable contribution which Edward Kent made to all areas of life in the country and in particular the dependencies of Carriacou & Petite Martinique.

Notably in the: • • •

preservation of cultural heritage; agriculture; and Grenada Model Farm Corp.

And so Edward in the words of the prayer of St. Ignatius of Loyola - you gave without counting the cost, fought and did not heed the wounds, you toiled without seeking rest. You laboured and asked for no reward other than knowing that you did His will. For these gifts and many, more on behalf of the Ministry, Rest in peace.

Carriacou has lost a true friend, a worthy champion of its past, devoted mentor to several generations whose door was always open to those who came his way.

Edward was a prim and proper man he would often express alarm and sometimes amusement at the written and spoken English of many of those in the public life.

Let us comfort ourselves with his peals of laughter, his lively conversation, irrepressible humour, his infectious laughter and careful and precise diction.

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F ily day

INTERNATIONAL IN CARRIACOU A SUCCESS

People from throughout Carriacou converged at the Paradise Beach on Sunday, May 17th as the Division of Gender & Family Affairs within the Ministry of Carriacou & Petite Martinique Affairs hosted a fun day in recognition of International Family Day. The theme of the day was “Mothers and families: Challenges in a changing world”. President of the Grenada Organization of Woman, Elaine Henry-McQueen, who shared the day with the people of Carriacou, said that the family is the building block of society and plays a major role in the building of the society. She further stated that there is a need to deal with problems affecting households because “a dysfunctional family creates a dysfunctional society.”

Minister for Carriacou & Petite Martinique Affairs, Senator Hon. George Prime delivered the keynote address. He noted that there is a need to find creative ways to address problems affecting families in today's society. He said it is important to instill values of love, respect, honesty and integrity at home as children live what they learn.

Also forming part of the function was the presentation of certificates to HIV/AIDS advocates, Vinishah Cudjoe who is also the co-ordinator for Gender Affairs and Louise Joseph.

Meanwhile, as part of GNOW's Community Support Network, 17 volunteers (16 females, 1 male) underwent one week of training aimed at strengthening communities by supporting women to overcome gender based violence. They received their certificate of participation during the staging of International Family Day.

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MAURICE BISHOP INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Highlights of the Renaming ceremony for the

U L C T I U R R G E A FOOD SECURITY PROGRAMME LAUNCHED IN CARRIACOU & PETITE MARTINIQUE More than 60 families in Carriacou & Petite Martinique are beneficiaries of the Food Security Programme, which aims to encourage nationals to consume more locally-produced items and to help reduce spending on imports such as chicken. Our national food import bill is estimated at $156 million.

The Programme launch in Carriacou, part of a concerted effort the Government of Prime Minister Hon. Tillman Thomas to ensuring that the twin-isle constituency of Carriacou & Petite Martinique is not left out of any national projects and initiatives, took place recently.

Food Security Co-ordinator Ingrid Rush said the government's objective is to give people the ability to feed themselves, by boosting access to safe and quality food. Mrs. Rush, who is attached to the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, gave a commitment that the Programme will be ongoing.

Minister for Carriacou & Petite Martinique Affairs, Senator the Hon. George Prime, urged the beneficiaries to take good care of the animals provided to them, and to utilize the opportunity to become self-sufficient and expand production.

Senator Prime and Mrs. Rush were joined at the launch of the Programme by the head of the Carriacou Agriculture Department, Bernard McIntosh; Barbara Charles, Senior Administrative Officer in the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry & Fisheries; and by Extension Officer, George Phillip.

The Food Security Programme, sponsored by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, is a support service for small farmers, schools, women-headed households and backyard farmers who will be given pigs, rabbits, broilers, beans, corn, ochro and other seeds to encourage local production.

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PUBLIC NOTICE In keeping with the government's approach to the delivery of services through private-publicpartnership, the Division of Agriculture in the Ministry of Carriacou & Petite Martinique Affairs is pleased to inform the general public that a new tractor service is now available at a rate of $80.00 per hour.

AGRICULTURE REVITALIZATION ON STREAM IN CARRIACOU

The Belair Nursery in Carriacou now has a wide variety of plants on sale.

This is one of the benefits of training in plant propagation provided to Wilford Allard and Cindy Teka, of the Forestry Division within the Ministry of Carriacou & Petite Martinique Affairs, in November 2008.

In preparation for the 2009 planting season, the nursery is providing tomato and pepper seedlings for sale while cabbage, lettuce and other plants will also be available.

All persons interested in the service should contact Mr. John Blair, Six Roads, Carriacou at telephone no. 443-6364.

All payments for ploughing must be made immediately before the ploughing of one's plot of land is completed as there is no system for credit.

We want to thank Mr. Blair for his confidence in this new partnership arrangement and to thank you for your patience as we proceed with the ploughing on a zonal basis starting in the south and look forward to your cooperation.

It is hoped that farmers and members of households will take advantage of this opportunity, as it will save them the cost and hassle of traveling to Grenada to purchase plants. “It is very important for farmers and people in Carriacou generally to have access to these plants as we work to have a thriving agricultural sector restored here. It will help to stimulate essential gardening, which will supplement the incomes of families who take up the challenge,� said Minister for Carriacou and Petite Martinique Affairs, Sen. Hon George Prime.

Meanwhile, the Division is looking to utilize lands on the outskirt of the nursery to develop an orchard, which will be used as a demonstration site for farmers and students.

In the meantime all arrangements are being made to increase the availability of the tractor services.

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SMALL RUMINANTS FARMERS ATTEND TRAINING WORKSHOP ON INTERNAL PARASITES Efforts to ensure Carriacou becomes the centre of excellence for small ruminants' production, the Division of Agriculture within the Ministry of Carriacou & Petite Martinique Affairs hosted a one day training for small ruminants (goats and sheep) farmers and agriculture students on the management of internal parasites.

Livestock Officer, Norland Cox noted that one of the parasites creating problems for the livestock industry is the barber pole worm, which is a blood sucking parasite that is common in the abomasums (the sheep's fourth or true stomach). However, Cox highlighted that internal parasite control starts with good management and common sense and animals should not be fed on the ground, water should be clean and free from fecal matter and pastures and pens should not be overstocked.

He said the Agriculture Division will also be working along with the farmers to develop pastures.

Also forming part of the workshop was a presentation by Livestock Consultant, Pweil Mwasha who spoke on the development of a model farm school which would look at the management and processing of goats for meat production among other things.

Twenty fishermen from the island of Petite Martinique were involved in two days of training in new fishing techniques.

During the training sessions, the trainees built and deployed two fishing aggregating devices. The devices were constructed using concrete, rope and buoys.

The training was facilitated by Howard Mitchell, a Petite Martinique fisherman in collaboration with the Fisheries Division of the Ministry of Carriacou & Petite Martinique Affairs.

According to Fisheries Officer, Junior McDonald, the fishermen indicated that the training was timely and will create positive results.

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FISH AGGREGATING DEVICE (FAD) TRAINING IN PETITE MARTINIQUE

ARTIFICIAL INSEMINATION PROGRAMME LAUNCHED IN CARRIACOU

The Ministry of Agriculture on Wednesday successfully launched the artificial insemination programme for cows in Carriacou. The programme is part of the revitalization of agriculture by increasing the production and productivity of both crop and livestock, which forms an important element of the government's agenda.

Minister for Carriacou & Petite Martinique Affairs Senator Hon. George Prime, in delivering the keynote address, told the gathering that while there is a need to improve the genetic base for milk and meat, there is also a need to “change our mindset toward consumption of locally produced livestock products,

mainly milk, butter and cheese, in order to reduce the national food import bill.”

Minister Prime noted that the introduction of artificial insemination will lead to the production of superior calves, which require better management. He said it also provides an opportunity for the improvement in the hygiene and safety of milk, in order to be competitive in the market. He encouraged the formation of a cooperative among farmers and was high in praise for Livestock Consultant Pweil Mwasha.

Chief Inseminator Yvonne Telesford, artificially inseminated two cows during the launch as part of a public demonstration of the process. Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr. Bowen Louison, provided an explanation of artificial insemination and its benefits. Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Carriacou & Petite Martinique Affairs, Bernadette Lendore-Sylvester and students studying agricultural science, were among those in attendance.

During the launch, Farm Manager Edwin Duncan, who participated in an insemination programme at the University of Trinidad and Tobago was presented with a certificate.

ABANDONED ACCESS ROADS CLEARED In an effort to reconnect villages, abandoned farmlands and properties, the Division of Agriculture within the Ministry of Carriacou & Petite Martinique Affairs is hard at work clearing access roads throughout Carriacou that has been abandoned for many decades.

This gives residents and visitors an opportunity to explore many parts of the 13 square miles island. Some of the areas already cleared include Limlair Farm to Mt. Pleasant and New Land, Dumfries to Mt. Royal , and Mt. Desire and Bayaleau leading to Negro Well, which is part of the island's historical estates.

According to Head of the Agriculture Division, Bernard McIntosh, the clearing of these roads has helped persons who were unable to access their lands to begin surveying their properties.

In addition, the government hopes to reconstruct the “island road” which connects several parts of the island.

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STAKEHOLDERS IN CARRIACOU & PETITE MARTINIQUE BRIEFED ON SWINE FLU Alister Antoine and Nurse Lydia Phillip of the Ministry of Health.

Dr. Antoine told the meeting that the Ministry had put in place a series of measures designed to minimize any potential risk to the population and has been in regular contact with the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and the Caribbean Epidemiological Center (CAREC) in Trinidad and Tobago.

He advised that persons should frequently wash hands with soap and water, avoid touching their eyes and mouth, and avoid close contact with sick persons. He noted that all medical stores have been contacted to stock up on Tami-flu, the drug that is used to fight the virus.

Representatives of various stakeholder groups in Carriacou & Petite Martinique were briefed by health officials on the government's plans for dealing with the new swine flu virus.

The Ministry of Carriacou & Petite Martinique Affairs, the police, tourism and health personnel attended the meeting at the Hillsborough Health Centre, which was addressed by Dr.

Nurse Lydia Phillip, who is part of the health promotions team, said the Ministry has prepared a health declaration form for use at the airport. She said teams will be going into the schools to do sessions on the virus.

Participants attending the meeting were concerned about the availability of a building for the isolation of infected persons should an outbreak take place and the transportation of samples from Carriacou to Grenada.

COLLECTION OF DRIVER'S LICENCE IN CARRIACOU NOW A REALITY required to travel to Grenada to have their pictures taken for the preparation of their driver's licence. In a new arrangement, the Licencing Officer will visit Carriacou once per month for three days in order to take photographs.

The people of Carriacou & Petite Martinique will no longer be required to travel to St. George's to process their driver's license.

As part of the fulfillment of a promise by the Minister of Carriacou & Petite Martinique Affairs, Sen. George Prime , over 70 licenses were processed and sent back to the people of the sister islands.

In the past residents paid for their licenses in Hillsborough but were

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The license will be completed and sent back to Carriacou one week later.

Residents will be able to collect the new permit at the Carriacou Police Station.

Persons who have already taken the picture, can check in with Inspector Richard Langdon at the Carriacou Police Station. They are required to produce their old driving license when collecting the new one.

This was one of the issues discussed at a recent townhall meeting attended by members of Cabinet. Senator Prime and Minister for Finance, Nazim Burke both gave the undertaking that the hassle associated with persons traveling to Grenada to get a new drivers license should end.

“These are things which do not require major policy changes or great expenditure. I am very pleased that we, as a government, were able to make this happen with all the benefits going to the people of Carriacou & Petiet Martinique,” said Senator Prime.

His position was echoed by the Minister of Finance, Hon. Nazim Burke who described the move as a “welcomed change.”

FIFTH LOCAL GOVERNMENT CONFERENCE IN FREEPORT, BAHAMAS A SUCCESS Minister Golding said in order to facilitate this; there must be a clear legislative and institutional framework, a competent management structure, accountability, good service delivery and respect from the politicians for the legitimacy of local government.

He also highlighted the need for central government to recognize that citizens must be an integral part of the development process. He called for a “different kind of behaviour” from politicians “as they make the mistake of believing they own the system”.

Senator the Hon. George Prime, Minister for Carriacou & Petite Martinique Affairs was among five hundred and fifty delegates from fortyeight countries , who met in Freeport, Bahamas, from May 11th-14th on the occasion of the fifth Commonwealth Local Government Conference and General Meeting of the Commonwealth Local Government Forum (CLGF).

Montague, Minister of State for Local Government in Jamaica and Head of the Caribbean Local Government Ministers Forum, noted that leaders must be visionary and not allow the global financial crisis to erode gains in local government. He declared that now is the time for countries to realize the significant role that local government plays in re-energizing the economy. He said there must be shared vision.

His attendance at the conference, hosted by the Government of the Bahamas, was critical, as the Grenada government seeks to implement the constitutional provisions for local government for the people of Carriacou and Petite Martinique. The four day conference looked at a broad range of issues including identifying resources for local government during global recession, strengthening local leadership, governance and finances, strategic partnership to improve local services and effective local government in small states.

Other speakers at the conference included Winston Cox, Executive Director of the Inter-American

In delivering an address on improving local government, Hon. Robert

Some of the delegates also had an opportunity to visit a number of capacity building projects in the Grand Bahama, while the others attended a special workshop on using technology to improve local government.

Minister Prime had the opportunity to co-chair the working session focused on effective local government in small states. He was accompanied by Public Relations Officer, Deanna Isaac.

Development Bank, who emphasized that the bank will support projects that are sensitive to national circumstances.

He says this is in keeping with the bank's four main operational pillars of democracy, rule of law and security, public management and state society.

The next Commonwealth Local Government Conference takes place in Wales in 2011.

The keynote address, at the close of the conference, was delivered by Prime Minister of Jamaica and CLGF Patron, Hon. Bruce Golding, who focused on improving local government for a more equitable and sustainable future. Prime

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NaDMA CARRIACOU PREPARES CITIZENS FOR 2009 HURRICANE SEASON While weather forecasters have downgraded their predictions for this year's hurricane season, the Carriacou branch of the National Disaster Management Agency is not leaving no stone unturned to ensure people on the 13 square miles island are prepared for any eventuality.

The branch held an open house exhibition on the grounds of the Tourism Centre during Disaster Awareness Week to heighten the consciousness among residents for disaster preparedness.

Ham radios, hydraulic pumps, oxygen tanks along with masks and blankets among other items were displayed. According to Community Co-ordinator, Shaun Patrice the open house was held so people could see the items needed if a disaster should strike.

Meanwhile, the Hillsborough Government School made Carriacou proud by placing second in the National Primary Schools Disaster Awareness Quiz. The school was represented by Shania Chase, Neila Stafford and Avian Alexis.

HIGHLIGHT OF BAHAMIAN CULTURE

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ROTARY CLUBS ASSIST ELDERLY IN CARRIACOU Four residents of the Top Hill Senior Citizens Home are now more comfortable, thanks to the Rotary Clubs of Carriacou and Felicity, Trinidad. The four residents were recipients of brand new wheel chairs.

According to President of the Rotary Club of Carriacou, Cosnel McIntosh, this was an effort of the Rotary Club of Felicity, Trinidad, which is one of the

youngest clubs in the region. He said Carriacou received fifty of the more than 1000 chairs the club was able to solicit.

The Top Hill Senior Citizens Home, which has fifteen residents, was not the only beneficiary. Two residents of the Hermitage Nursing Home and individual families also benefited from this gesture.

HINI Alert Cover your mouth when you cough and sneeze, or use a tissue.

Wash your hands after you: Sneeze, Use the Bathroom, Before you eat.

Wash your hands before you: touch your eyes, mouth or nose.

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What Should You Do? BEFORE A HURRICANE

DURING A HURRICANE

AFTER A HURRICANE

* Check to be certain that your emergency equipment is in good working order.

* Remain calm and provide assurance to children and elderly.

* Assist in search and rescue.

* Store water, food and essential medicines.

* In cases where your house is damaged and the main switch is still on, it is always wise to switch it off. Ideally you should do so before a hurricane.

* Have enough supplies for at least two (2) weeks. * Obtain and store materials to protect your home. * Review your insurance policy to ensure it provides adequate coverage. * Do you have elderly friends or relatives who will stay with you during a storm? Keep a list of their prescribed medications, and be sure to include them in food and water storage plans.

* Where there are heavy lightning flashes, avoid getting into contact with metal objects. Stay out of the shower or bath during ALL storms. * Avoid going outdoors until the ‘all clear’ is given.

* Seek medical attention for persons injured. * Clean up debris and effect temporary repairs. * Report damage to utilities. * Assist in road clearance. * Watch out for secondary hazards, fire, flooding, etc. * Assist in community response efforts. * Avoid sightseeing. * Co-operate with Damage Assessors. * Avoid getting into contact with lines lying on the ground.

* Have a flashlight with batteries handy.

* Report to the Grenada Electricity Services (GRENLEC) all damaged or broken poles/wires etc. which may be seen in your area, as soon as possible.

* Have a battery operated radio available. * Have a First Aid Kit handy. * Pick fruits and trim trees if near house. * Plan for Evacuation. * Listen to the weather reports on radio and televison.

Government Printery