Government Information Service Newsletter - Vol. 2, Issue 16 - 2021

NEWSLETTER GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICE

Monday, August 30, 2021

Ministry of Health Urges Population to

AVOID MISINFORMATION DETAILS ON PAGE 02

Vol. 2, Issue 16

INSIDE PAGE 04

PFIZER ADDED AS AN OPTION AS VACCINATION CAMPAIGN CONTINUES

PAGE 08

NEW HOSPITAL REGULATIONS

PAGE 10

GOVERNMENT PRESENTS A WAY TO MANAGE ELECTRICITY BILL

AND MUCH MORE...

GIS NEWSLETTER

NEWSLETTER CONTRIBUTORS

GIS DIRECTOR AG Leslie-Anne Johnson PRESS SECRETARY Philomena Robertson NEWS DIRECTOR AG Rickisha St. Louis GIS REPORTERS Jermonne Adams Mina Booker Keville Frederick Carrema Lewis Abigeil Mc Intyre Chrisan Mitchell Annette Moore Shere-Ann Noel June Paul Eugenia Peters Jazelle Sylvester DESIGN & LAYOUT Dwayne Francique EDITOR Annette Moore EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Philomena Robertson

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Ministry of Health Urges Population to Avoid Misinformation As Grenada battles its way through this critical phase of the COVID-19 management, the Ministry of Health again advises the public to avoid misinformation, as it can make the difference between life and death in this pandemic.

The Government of Grenada, through the Ministry of Health and the Government Information Service, is the conduit of official, factual, and credible information.

Any information relating to policy and response in this pandemic will come officially from the Ministry, with its insignia.

vaccination centres, including the Kirani As Grenada navigates its way through James Athlethic Stadium. The COVID-19 curbing this recent outbreak, the Ministry vaccines are available to the public free of will provide regular updates on the cost. epidemiological situation and on the ongoing response mechanisms. The Grenada’s present stock of Pfizer and situation is fluid and so too will be the AstraZeneca vaccines are enough official information. to provide the requisite two doses The Ministry is encouraging members for thousands of Grenadians, with of the public to scale up their personal appropriate intervals between the doses. hygiene, such as the proper wearing of The Ministry urges those who have not masks in public spaces, frequent sanitising yet done so to get vaccinated, to give or washing of hands and the continuous themselves the best possible chance in practice of avoiding large gatherings and remaining six feet away from people the face of this deadly disease. outside their household.

A crucial element in this fight against COVID-19 is vaccination.

Scientific studies show that vaccines are proving to work in preventing severe illness, hospitalisation, and death. Grenada currently has two WHOapproved vaccines for dissemination to the public: AstraZeneca and Pfizer.

The AstraZeneca vaccine continues to be available to all adults. The Pfizer vaccine is currently available to anyone aged 12 and over, at any of the nation’s

The Ministry continues to also encourage anyone who has been exposed to COVID-19, or who is experiencing symptoms that are consistent with COVID-19, to immediately isolate themselves from others and call 458-4787 or 538-4787 or the nearest health centre or medical station to request testing. There is no charge for tests conducted as part of contact tracing efforts and for persons who fear they have been exposed to the virus.

HEALTH MATTERS

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Prime Minister Mitchell Calls for Collaboration in the COVID-19 Fight

Prime Minister, Dr. the Right Hon. Keith Mitchell, has made Dr. Mitchell said, “All another call for influential and social partners to join in the approvals already fight against COVID-19. granted for social events, During a recent address to the nation, Dr. Mitchell underscored the importance of collaboration to prevent further spread of the virus. His call was made against the backdrop of the recent increase in positive cases on island, among individuals with no recent travel history and which has since been classified as community spread.

including private parties, bus tours and boat rides, within the next two weeks, have

been

rescinded

with immediate effect.

Therefore, there should Dr. Mitchell reiterated that Government alone cannot curb the situation and bring about the change that is needed and be no social gatherings inclusive of weddings Prime Minister, stressed the need for a collaborative effort. and funerals with more Dr. the Rt. Hon. Keith Mitchell The Prime Minister said, “I must at this point issue an appeal than 20 persons and which do not comply with the stipulated to our social partners and all persons of influence in our society to be more vocal in the fight against COVID-19. The protocols.”

Government is doing its part. We are continuing to take the necessary measures to protect lives and safeguard The COVID-19 Regulations were further amended on August livelihoods. We are continuing to ensure that public officers prohibiting are paid in full and on time. We are continuing to create an 28, enabling environment that promotes economic activity dine-in services at but we need your help. We need all of you to stand with us restaurants, and partners in this process. Your choice to lend your voice could mean the difference in whether or not we continue to wage restricting funerals to one hour, between a successful battle against this dreaded disease.”

Dr. Mitchell also announced changes to the emergency powers regulations, which are now in effect until September 3. No business, establishment, office, institution or person shall host or facilitate any party-like activity including, but not limited to, bus tours, private parties, beach parties and other forms of public entertainment. A curfew is also in effect for the same period from 9:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m.

9:00 a.m. and 12 noon. of

the

The

start

2021/2022

academic year has also been delayed by two weeks for inclass learning.

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Pfizer Added as an Option as Vaccination Campaign Continues The Ministry of Health’s vaccination campaign continued during the week of August 22-28, with the administration of Pfizer and AstraZeneca vaccines.

Grenada began its vaccination campaign in February 2021 with the AstraZeneca vaccine. With Pfizer now added as an option, more than 1,400 citizens chose this vaccine during its first week of administration to protect themselves and their family from COVID-19.

Health officials at medical stations island wide are equipped and ready to administer either of the vaccines to Grenadians.

Additionally, there have been pop up clinics at locations across the country to make the vaccines more accessible to persons.

To date, 24,688 Grenadians have received the first dose of and more than 18,000 have received both doses.

Grenada currently has 357 confirmed cases, 164 of which are active. The recent increase in positive cases, has sparked aggressive contact tracing efforts by the Ministry to expeditiously curb the further spread of the virus.

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HEALTH MATTERS

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COVID-19 Response and Vaccination Drive Ramps Up on the Sister Isles

With the recent surge of COVID-19 cases in Grenada, the COVID-19 Response Team in Carriacou and Petite Martinique is working with the Ministry of Health to raise greater awareness about its vaccination drive and to reinforce measures that will help safeguard against the potential spread of the virus on the islands.

Carriacou’s first quota of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Pfizer Vaccine arrived on island on August 25 and was made available to children 12 years and older, starting August 26 in a vaccination drive at the Hillsborough Tennis Court.

Minister for Carriacou and Petite Martinique Affairs, Hon. Kindra Maturine-Stewart, said a series of community sensitisation and vaccination initiatives will begin in the coming days. Minister Stewart urged people to adhere to the protocols and, most importantly, to get vaccinated, pointing out that the unvaccinated are now most at risk.

Community Health Nurse for Carriacou and Petite Martinique, Donette St. Bernard, disclosed that many people in Carriacou and Petite Martinique have been coming forward to be vaccinated and requests for the Pfizer vaccine have been overwhelming. St. Bernard further encouraged everyone to get vaccinated as global statistics show a decline in COVID-19 related deaths as vaccination increases.

More than 2,000 people in Carriacou and Petite Martinique have so far been vaccinated.

Joeanna Matheson first student to get the Pfizer shot in Carriacou

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COVID-19 and Vaccination is Everybody’s Business

The Government of Grenada continues to appeal to Grenadians to get vaccinated, as the country’s fight against the virus continues amidst the current spike in COVID-19 cases.

As of August 28, 24,688 Grenadians have received the first dose of the vaccine and 18, 704 are fully vaccinated.

Grenada has recorded 357 COVID-19 cases since the start of the pandemic in March 2020.

Infrastructure Development Minister, Senator the Honourable Norland Cox is among those urging Grenadians to be vaccinated. He said being vaccinated means persons are protecting and considering those who cannot be vaccinated at this time.

“As we continue to look at how things pan out in the country, we are seeing more and more that COVID-19 is the constant variable that is affecting everything happening to us. The only way we can get out of this is for more persons to get vaccinated,” the Minister said, adding, “The quicker we get vaccinated is the quicker we can get back to normalcy. We want to continue making the appeal for persons to continue to get the right information. If you’re not clear, or have some degree of fear, speak to your health professional or to persons who have already received the vaccine.”

Foreign Affairs Minister, Hon. Oliver Joseph, said every Grenadian has a part to play in ensuring that the economy recovers.

Hon. Joseph said, “As we have more people going back to work, people will have more disposable income and they will spend more and Government will collect more money in taxes. We want to see more people back to work, but for that to happen, we have to ensure that people are vaccinated. We also want to make Grenada a safe place, where tourists can come and feel safe, because we have reached herd immunity. Each one of us has the responsibility to play our role in ensuring the economy recovers and one way of doing so is by taking the vaccine.”

Sen. Hon. Norland Cox

Infrastructure Development and Implementation Minister

Foreign Affairs Minister, Hon. Oliver Joseph

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Technology and Development of Science Make COVID-19 Vaccines Legitimate

President of the Senate, Chester Humphrey, wants the public to play a greater role in helping to manage Grenada’s COVID-19 cases by considering the option of vaccination.

Humphrey, who was a guest on the television programme “Rise and Shine” on August 19, is encouraging more Grenadians to consider vaccination, now that there are options.

Grenada received 29,250 doses of the Pfizer BioNTech vaccine from the United States Government. The vaccine, which can be administered to children 12 years and older, is approved by the Food and Drug Administration and the World Health Organization.

Humphrey said, “The Government has kept Grenada safe. We have had one death.”

Humphrey reminisced on the deadly 1918 influenza pandemic caused by the H1N1 influenza A virus.

He said, with developments in medical science and technology today, there is no need for citizens to doubt the efficiency of the COVID-19 vaccine.

“If you could do microscopic surgery and you could repair the valve in a man’s heart without having to cut open his chest, why can’t you develop a vaccine in short order? This is not 1918. The world is in a different place. We’re a knowledgedriven world, where man has a better understanding of nature and matter. A private man could go into space on an aircraft. So, there is a tool and that tool is the vaccine,” Humphrey said.

President of the Senate, Chester Humphrey

HEALTH MATTERS

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Grenada Has More Than Enough COVID-19 Test Kits

The Ministry of Health is assuring the nation that it has an adequate supply of swabs to conduct PCR tests.

Responding to claims that there is an insufficient supply of swabs at the airport, Acting Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health with responsibility for Hospital and Community Health Services, Hannah Julien-St. Paul, said stocks at the Maurice Bishop International Airport were replenished within minutes when on site supplies were depleted on August 11.

Reiterating that there is an ample supply of PCR swabs at medical stations and thousands of swabs at the Ministry’s storage facility, Julien-St. Paul said, “The Ministry of Health would like to confirm that we have adequate supplies of PCR swabs at our central medical stores, we have over 40, 000 swabs at the storeroom at present, which is sufficient to meet the demand for testing travelers entering our ports.”

to Grenadians and visitors alike. He explained that supplies at all health facilities, including testing sites, are replenished upon request.

Dr. Charles said, “Any health facility that is running low on supplies simply has to send their requisition to our central storage to be replenished. This is a routine activity within the system. The Acting Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Shawn Charles, said the Ministry Ministry of Health actively procures supplies, consumables, of Health continues to procure supplies and equipment from equipment and makes them available to all our health facilities overseas in a timely manner to effectively provide quality service and health providers for use within the health system.”

New Regulations for Hospitals

The Ministry of Health has implemented new regulations to reduce the risk of the spread of COVID-19 to visitors and patients at hospitals across the country.

According to senior health officials, the measures are necessary due to the recent spike in positive cases and the need to decrease the number of people who visit patients on a daily basis.

Director of Medical Services, Dr. Tyiesha Donald, during the weekly Ministry of Health programme, The Next Chapter, said only one person will be allowed to accompany a patient to the Accident and to come by themselves, except if they large gatherings on the compound.

Emergency Department and that is only if need assistance because of a disability or necessary. other challenge and such circumstances, No more than six visitors will be allowed they are allowed to have one person with on the wards at once and only one visitor Persons with flu-like symptoms are advised to will be allowed per patient. Children will to call the nearest medical station to have them. Persons 18 and under are allowed not be allowed on the wards. Also, visitors a nurse visit them to conduct home tests have one person with them.” should not arrive more than 20 minutes and evaluation.

Dr. Donald said patients for the outpatient prior to the start of visitation hours which Donald said, “Persons coming to Accident clinic must arrive no earlier than 15minutes are 11:00 a.m. to 12 noon and 3:00 – 5:30 and Emergency who are 18 and over need before the appointment time to prevent p.m.

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Increased Illegal Entries Recorded for 2021 Grenada has recorded an increase in the number of illegal Airport, Lauriston Airport, entries into the country, particularly people coming from Port Louis, St. George’s Main South American countries.

Port, Port of Grenville, Harvey Vale and Tyrell Bay Marina Immigration officers have intercepted 30 illegal immigrants so far for 2021. The Royal Grenada Police Force in Carriacou. Those are the and the Immigration and Passport Department have been approved ports. If anyone working collaboratively to provide security at the country’s should enter Grenada at any borders. Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic in other bay or inlet, they are 2020, security has been increased to prevent illegal entry, not obeying the law.” to avoid any potential threat to the population.

Sgt. Andy John said, “Last year, for the entire year, we had 15 illegal immigrants and, so far this year, we have 30.

We have seen an increase. What we have also recognised is the different nationalities. Previously, it was mostly people from St. Vincent crossing the borders, because of the close proximity. Occasionally, we may get someone from different islands such as Barbados, Trinidad, but for this year we have seen the presence of persons from South American countries. This year, we have charged six Venezuelans, one Colombian, one Panamanian. So, this is a new trend we have been seeing as of recently and it’s definitely cause for concern.”

Immigration Officer, Sgt. Andy John

The sergeants said although measures are being implemented to heighten security at the borders, the public is encouraged to be vigilant and continue to support the officers as they work toward stamping out illegal entry into the country.

John said, “Helping the immigration department is helping Grenada. We’re in the middle of a pandemic and we all understand how the virus works, so it’s very important that we get the information so we can respond to ensure that we keep Grenada safe.”

According to Sgt. Allie Lewis, Grenada has 11 ports of entry, with only seven currently in operation as approved Lewis added, “Most of the persons that we caught was ports, including Harvey Vale and Tyrell Bay in Carriacou. because of information. Persons would come in the night, early morning and so on. We would not be on site, Lewis said, “At this moment we only have seven operational ports, taking into consideration the COVID-19 situation, we of course, but we get the information and we act on it. I had to restrict the numbers in order to maintain control. would like to commend the public. We’re really happy to The seven ports include Maurice Bishop International have their support and we urge that it continues.”

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Government Presents a Way to Manage Electricity Bill

Sen. Hon. Norland Cox

Minister for Infrastructure Development and Implementation

Grenadians can now acquire a license from the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC), to Different categories of consumers an opportunity for you to gain become self-generators. will be considered under the Self- revenue from that investment.”

Infrastructure Development and generation Programme based on Plans are in the pipeline for larger Implementation Minister, Sen. the the size of their consumption.

Hon. Norland Cox, said this option consumers interested in selfSenator Cox said, “You get your is part of Government’s agenda to generation. requisite electrician, who has the stabilise energy and reduce the cost consumers pay for electricity. competencies and would advise on The Minister also noted that there can Self-generation is the use of power how many solar panels you would generated on-site by an energy require based on your energy need, be medium and large independent consumer to reduce the purchase and then you apply to the PURC for power providers, which would a license to self-generate. If your include people who may set up of electricity from the grid. household is using 5 or 10 kilowatts a solar field of around 100 to 150 Regulations are now in place for per month, you self-generate for kilowatts, some of which are already Grenadians to take advantage of your need and the excess is sold to on island, and sell solely to the grid. the opportunity to bring their rates the grid and GRENLEC will in turn, He said there may be others who go down, generate electricity for their sell that to other consumers. That’s up to as much as 10 megawatts. use and sell extra kilowatts back to how the self-generator mechanism the Grenada Electricity Services Ltd. functions, so having made that (GRENLEC), which in turn, will sell to investment, you will not have any Energy self-generation includes the other consumers. expenses for electricity but there’s use of renewable energy sources.

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GNCD and Government Recognize Successful Students With Disabilities Eight children living with disabilities received backpacks with school essentials to support their preparations for their 2021/2022 academic journey.

The recipients were all successful in the 2021 CPEA Examinations. The Grenada National Council of the Disabled (GNCD), in collaboration with the Ministries of Social Development and Education, recognised the remarkable performance of the students during a recent handover ceremony.

Acting Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Social Development, Housing and Community Empowerment, Chrissie Worme-Charles congratulated the students, who rose above the challenges presented by the global pandemic. home. They have a right as well.

They could be prime ministers, doctors - they can make an input in society just as anyone else.

So we’re advocating for people to understand our plight. We are encouraging parents who have children hidden at home because they have a challenge.

John They have a right as everyone Clifford Clifford John Treasurer of the GNCD, Clifford John, reiterated that anyone, Treasurer of the GNCD else. This is why we’re taking this irrespective of disability, can achieve their dreams. bold initiative to step-up giving assistance to help parents make it to the next level with their John “They came from different schools. We want to take Plaquesaid, of appreciation presentkids.” ed to Prime Minister this opportunity to award the principals and teachers who worked extra hard to ensure that these students reached this level. We believe, as a people and organisation, that every Over the years, several programmes have been implemented person has a right to everything. Before we had challenges to put inclusive learning at the forefront. Kevin Andall, where people would say that those with disabilities should be Permanent Secretary in Ministry of Education, said the ministry will continue to create engagements for the development of its inclusive learning agenda.

“I want to say to you how very special you are and strong and how much I am looking forward to many good things coming forward from every single one of you. I think you have all worked so very hard in the midst of all the challenges, including COVID-19. You have overcome. This is truly a testimony of your strength as young persons, as we work towards inclusion.

As you’re about to embark on this important journey, never forget how strong you are,” Worme-Charles said.

He said, “There’s a lot more to be done, but I think, step-bystep, we are going to get there. I just want to commend you for your courage and tenacity, despite all the odds that are stacked up, some which you have no choice in, but believe me, your resilience is what is commendable.”

One of the beneficiaries, Zephaniah Murray achieved placement at Wesley College for the academic year beginning in September 2021.

He said, “I feel proud that I passed and I feel proud that I’ll be going to secondary school. I’ve made my mother proud.”

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International School of Film and TV (EICTV)

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COURSE OFFERING: First call for applications for the Transcultura scholarship Programme

Online Workshops PRODUCTION WORKSHOP: DEVELOP YOUR OWN FILM! Dates: 6 -17 September 2021 Professor: Rebecca Roos (Aruba, Dutch Caribbean) Specialty: Production

THINKING ON YOUR FEET: THINGS I LEARNED WHILE FILMING AWARD-WINNING DOCUMENTARIES Dates: 15 - 26 November 2021

SCRIPT WRITING FOR CREATIVE WOMEN Dates: 7 - 18 February 2022 Professor: Eliseo Altunaga (Cuba) Specialty: Screenplay

Professor: Carles Bosch (Spain) Specialty: Documentaries

STORY LAB: CINEMATIC STORY DEVELOPMENT

CREATIVE VISUAL STORYTELLING Dates: 10 - 21 January 2022

Dates: 20 September - 1 October 2021

Professor: Rebecca Roos (Aruba, Dutch Caribbean)

Professor: Erik Knudsen (United Kingdom)

Specialty: Direction

Specialty: Screenplay

DISTRIBUTION WORKSHOP: FIND A MARKET FOR YOUR FILM Dates: 25 October - 2 November 2021

WRITING AND PRODUCTION OF LOW-BUDGET FILMS: LEARNING

BY DOING

Professor: Janice Strangward (Jamaica)

Dates: 24 January - 4 February 2022

Specialty: Production

Professor: Héctor Tokman (Argentina) Specialty: Produccion

VISIT WEBSITE FOR MORE INFORMATION: https://en.unesco.org/news/transcultura-programme-launches-unique-opportunitycaribbean-musicians-and-music-professionals

BIG BANG: TRANSMEDIA NARRATIVES Dates: 4 - 15 October 2021 Professor: Daniel Resnich (Spain) Specialty: Screenplay and New Media

The courses “Distribution Workshop: Find a Market for your Film” y “Writing and Production of Low-Budget Films” will have an additional edition to the one mentioned above.

These dates are pending definition in accordance with the teachers’ agendas.

#BecomeATransculturaFellow

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For full details on the CIIF Music Accelerator programme, please visit the following link: https://www.caribank.org/publicat.../resource-library/other-resources/call-applications-digitisation-music-accelerator-programme The Ministry encourages all local music entrepreneurs to make full use of this opportunity and wishes them a successful training.

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CENSUS 2021

Starting from September 15th, 2021 What is a Population and Housing Census?

A census counts the entire population and housing stock of a country at a specified time and collects, produce, and disseminate information on their main

Purpose of a Census; To provide information for effective decision making that can lead to sustainable development (e.g ensure

characteristics (geographic, demographic,

food security, ensure disaster

social and economic, environmental). It is

prepardness, health care,

a rich source of statistical information, ranging from the lowest geographical

education and training).

levels, covering small areas, to the national level.

Census data is critical in revealing lifestyle trends and a key indicator in ensuring optimal use of public funds.

Update the population count and compare information with other countries. All

It provides key indicators for our

countries worldwide are

government that will inform the optimal

obligated to provide updates

allocation of public funds

Who are the Users of Census Data?

Private Sector Non-Governmental Organisations Government Investors & Developing Partners Researchers/ Students (SBA'S) Church organizations Funding Agencies Media General Public

on its population size to the international community.

Census data is critical in revealing lifestyle trends and a key indicator in ensuring optimal use of public funds.

Is my Information Confidential?

Yes! All persons engaged on the census must take an oath of secrecy (A life-long oath); provided for in the Statistics Act. There are severe penalties in place for breaching the oath of secrecy. Information collected is kept strictly confidential. The CSO has never had an incidence of breach of confidentiality or the leaking of respondent's personal information.

No information would be released that will disclose the identity of any respondent, individual or household.

Information collected via tablets are encrypted once it is entered into the device, further protecting person's information.

THE CENSUS QUESTIONNAIRE COVERS AREAS SUCH AS SEX, ETHNICITY, RELIGION, EMPLOYMENT, HEALTH, EDUCATION, ACCESS TO ICT, EARNINGS, FERTILITY, AGE, ACCESS TO BASIC LIVING AMMENITIES, CRIME AND GENERAL WELFARE AMONG OTHERS.

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Dispelling Myths about Census!

2

1 Myth: Census doesn't impact me or my family.

Fact: The Central Statistical Office has a legal Obligation to protect your personal information. Information that discloses the identity of any respondent, household or individual cannot be disseminated by law.

Hence, no one can access your census info — NOT the government, NOT insurance companies, NOT Friend of the Court, NOT your landlord, NOT social services.

Fact- Every person counted matters. How much is allocated for health, grant funding for community projects, Government assistance for families and the elderly, are all determined by the census, and depends on YOU sharing the correct information.

3 Myth: Gov't can use my info. to raise taxes..

4

Myth: I can choose to NOT participate in the Census: Fact: It is the Law that everyone must participate in the Census, it is not optional. Sharing accurate information can only result in better planning by the State, spurring growth in our communities and ensuring a better future for our children.

Myth: Census counts only citizens of Grenada..

Fact: The census is required by Law to count all usual residents of Grenada, Carriacou an Petite Martinique as of the 15th September 2021.

Immigration status does not matter (ie whether you are a citizen or not). All immigrants must be counted as the state has to provide for you as well for example; students at the St. George's University who is on island for 6 months or intend to be there for more than 6 months, etc.

Fact: Respondents personal Information is NOT shared with anyone, including the Government.

Your personal information regarding your earnings cannot and will not be shared with any entity.

5

Myth: Gov't can use my census info against me..

6

Myth: I do not have to answer all questions on the questionnaire..

Fact: You are required to answer ALL questions on the census questionnaire. This ensures that the most accurate information is collected to ensure the most quality results.

For more information: Telephone- #- 1 (473) 440-1369 Email- cso@cso.gov.gd Website- stats.gov.gd

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HOW DOES A POPULATION AND HOUSING CENSUS BENEFIT BUSINESSES?

1

Data from a Census can help businesses identify the skill level of a particular area or group to inform their labour needs.

2

Census collects economic data which can help businesses plan effectively,for e.g assessing the level of demand for goods and services.

3 4 5 CONTACT US: TELEPHONE- 1-(473)440-1369 EMAIL- CSO@CSO.GOV.GD WEBSITE- STATS.GOV.GD

Information gathered from a census can give businesses a general understanding of the socioeconomic needs of the population.

Helps with strategic planning and conducting T analysis to e amine the e ternal environment.

It also provides useful information for market research and feasibility studies.

Census provides information on the geographic distribution of the population and its demographic composition. This can inform product development and store locations.

2021 CENSUS : NOTHING ABOUT US, WITHOUT US BECAUSE WE ALL COUNT!

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Boat Operators Advised to Seek Permission From Fisheries Division to Install Mooring Systems

Boat operators are being encouraged to follow procedures not change and the seabed is outlined by the Fisheries Division by seeking permission to not damaged,” Coordinator install mooring systems. of Marine Protected Areas at the Fisheries Division, The fisheries regulations stipulate that for anyone to install a Olando Harvey, said. mooring system for personal, recreational, or commercial use in Grenada’s marine environment, he or she must first receive permission from the Fisheries Division to install moorings in The Fisheries Division has Marine Protected Areas and from the Grenada Ports Authority observed that some boat when seeking to install moorings in a harbour managed by operators are not following the authority. the proper protocols.

Coordinator of Marine Protected Areas at the Fisheries Division, Olando Harvey

Moreover, affixing unregistered moorings in marine protected Harvey said, “In Grenada, areas and harbours can cause accidents and result in serious some people are installing a injury to others. number of moorings without permission in different bays. So Failure to comply with the Fisheries Regulations may result the Fisheries Division is seeking to bring to the attention of in a summary conviction and a maximum fine of $10,000.00 the general public that there is an established procedure for or a maximum of six months in prison and the removal of the installing fixed moorings anywhere in Grenada.” mooring system.

Additionally, there are factors that must be considered prior to Mooring systems are used to secure boats and other sea installing moorings, such as the type of mooring system, the vessels to ensure they are not displaced by waves, tides, size of the block to be installed and the location that buoys winds, or storms. are allowed to be deployed, among other factors.

“The Fisheries Division promotes the use of moorings because they are much less intrusive on the marine environment with regard to the potential damage to the substrates in the marine environment. Instead of dropping anchors over and over, you have one fixed mooring, so the footprint of that mooring does

The Ministry of Sports, Culture and the Arts, Fisheries and Co-operatives encourages fishers, seafarers and the public to report any illegal or unregistered moorings to the Fisheries Division at (473) 440-3814.

AGRICULTURE CORNER

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Ministry of Agriculture Offers Vet and Livestock Assistance to St. John Farm Watch Organisation Rabies vaccination, treatment of parasites, deworming and castration were just some of the services rendered to some farmers of the St. John Farm Watch Organisation by the Ministry of Agriculture’s Veterinary and Livestock Department.

Responding to a request from the organisation, the Ministry offered a two-day livestock outreach, facilitated by Animal Health Assistant, Yolande Lord-Telesford; Livestock Officer, Nugent Bernard, and three extension officers.

A total of 14 farmers benefitted from the initiative, which was held on August 18 and 19, in the communities of Grand Roy, Mt. Plaisir, Power Park, Black Bay, Cotton Bailey soft terms and conditions – that can give livestock farmers and Concord. Their livestock – goats, sheep, pigs, rabbits, the best start if we want to improve livestock production.” et cetera – were thoroughly examined by the five-member team.

The St. John Farm Watch Organisation, formed in August 2021, works along with officers of the Praedial Larceny Task “There were problems with overgrown hooves in the small Force in St. John. It was through the efforts of some of the ruminants, external and internal parasites and worms. We officers that the outreach was made possible. also taught farmers how to apply external treatments for tick, lice, mange, so that it’s effective, and also the proper “This venture was all about the farm watch initiative. way of deworming livestock and how to determine the age The organisation was formed recently and, based on the of their livestock,” Lord-Telesford, said. complaints that we receive from farmers, we decided to One of the more significant issues noticed while seek the assistance of the Vet and Livestock Department of administering aid to the farmers was housing for the the Ministry of Agriculture in rendering livestock services animals. Bernard said this is needed if farmers are to take a to some of the farmers – a fitting start to the organisation,” remarked, Praedial Larceny Officer, Anthony St. Paul. business approach to the rearing of their livestock.

He said, “I want to appeal to policymakers, lending Going forward, the team of livestock officers pledged to institutions, that we have to come up with a formula that adopt the group and offer knowledge to the farmers to would enable young farmers to have start-up capital for improve on their stock and their housing. housing – it is a number one priority – and we need to get to a point where there should be an easily accessible loan – Ministry of Agriculture…ensuring food and nutrition security for all

AGRICULTURE CORNER

GIS NEWSLETTER

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RUBIS GIVES BACK

Meet the Farmer - Ronald Smith from St. John

Farmer - Ronald Smith

Rural farmer, Ronald Smith, is managing a small farm He said, “I just like animals. They help me to keep the with vegetables, small ruminants, and pigs while garden clean and I get manure, which I use for my plants, maintaining a full-time job - a challenge for the 35-yearand also get meat which generates income.” old resident of St. John.

Smith who is from Black Bay and has been farming for He sees his start in agriculture as an investment in his the past six years, said, “Working full-time and having to future. attend to the animals and the farm is very challenging for me but I get it done.”

Smith said, “I have made a start and I plan to stay in To date, he has many varieties of produce cultivated, farming. I would like to increase my production.” including cabbages, tomatoes, peppers, pumpkins and tannia, along with small ruminants and pigs.

Things to note about Smith: - He is into mixed farming – crops and animals.

He has been significantly affected by praedial larceny - He is a member of the St. John’s Farm Watch but has received support from the Praedial Larceny Task Organisation, which encourages partnership at the Force, through the St. John Community Farm Watch Programme. community level with farmers, community, the police and other stakeholders, to reduce Smith, who is employed full-time as a carpenter, instances of praedial larceny. explained the benefits of mixed farming and how each - He is farming part-time and wants to become component contributes to the other. a full-time farmer.

AGRICULTURE CORNER

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Irrigation is necessary to accelerate germination preferably at morning and afternoon. Although seeds Days in the nursery: can be left to germinate under the adult plant, they can Dwarf: 40 - 60 be germinated in a nursery with faster results and care, Hybrid: 70 - 90 to prevent root damage.

Giant: 100 - 120 (150) Seed beds should be dug: 20 ft X 3 ft X 1ft.

Seeds are placed on beds vertically or horizontally and a IMPORTANT NOTE: Seedlings should remain in the mixture of compost mulch and sand or river sand can be nursery until they have 3-4 leaves before transplanting used to cover the nuts leaving the top exposed. in the field.

FARMER’S PERSPECTIVE

AGRICULTURE CORNER

GIS NEWSLETTER

Vol. 2, Issue 16

Ministry of Agriculture, Lands & Forestry

Nematode Control for Bananas Taken from the Banana Tech Pack Developed by Derek Charles, National Specialist at IICA Grenada

Banana nematodes are tiny parasitic worms that damage the roots of banana plants by sucking out the nutrients.

Damaged root systems weaken the stability of banana plants in the soil and affects their ability to uptake water and nutrients.

Damaged roots are susceptible to infection by fungal parasites causing rotting and subsequent toppling of the banana plants.

Application of Nematicides: • Tissue culture plants are susceptible to nematodes infestation, therefore, if they are being planted on plots that had bananas or on plots that contained other plants that are hosts to the banana nematodes, it is advisable to apply nematicide during planting.

• Apply nematicide at planting, two months after planting and every four months thereafter.

However, this will depend on the type of nematicide and the type of planting material used.

Note: Contact your Extension Officer first before applying nematicides.

dash of almond essence ½ lb. short crust pastry Sugar for dredging

Ingredients 1 very ripe plantain ¼ tsp grated nutmeg ¼ tsp ginger & cinnamon mixed 2 tbsp brown sugar

METHOD • Cook plantain in boiling water till tender.

Remove center core.

Blend all ingredients together till smooth.

• Roll out pastry on a floured board and cut into circles. Divide filling evenly between circles.

• Place filling on circle, fold over and seal with a fork • Bake at 400°F for 20 -25 minutes • Dredge with sugar Please note that this recipe makes about 12 tarts.

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AGRICULTURE CORNER

GIS NEWSLETTER

HEALTH MATTERS

Guidelines for Farmer Registration Here’s what you need to know: 1. An application must be filed with the Ministry of Agriculture.

2. Proof of authorised access to land must be provided.

•

Deed of the land

•

Permission letter from land owner with signature and authorized by a Justice of the Peace (JP) or Notary Public

3. Only one application per farm will be accepted.

4. The farm must be actively maintained and producing.

5. The Ministry reserves the right to reject an application.

6. The card must be surrendered to the Ministry of Agriculture if ownership of the farm is transferred.

7. A farmer’s license can be revoked if he or she is found guilty of stealing from another farmer or receiving stolen produce.

8. The ID Card expires every two years and renewal will be based on a recommendation from your extension officer.

For more information, please call (473) 440-2708.

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AGRICULTURE CORNER

GIS NEWSLETTER

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GIS NEWSLETTER

Considerations for Planting Tannia Taken from the Tannia Factsheet developed

by Troy Augustine-Agronomy Division, Edited by Chief Agronomist et al May 2012

Tannia acts as a host for Moko disease banana

which

affects

industry.

the

Planting

Moko-infected

areas,

since the infected material can transmit the disease to clean banana-growing areas.

Care should also be taken to ensure that planting material affected by Tannia Burning Disease is not selected, since this

disease

causes

rapid

decline and death of the plant.

Troy Augustine - Agronomy Division, Ministry of Agriculture

Considerations: 1.

Planting material should be obtained from tops, sprouting corms, or cormels of the healthy and most vigorous plants.

2.

Planting material should be cleaned of all roots and washed of all soil. Damaged corms or planting material with any signs of decay should be discarded.

3.

28

s September 1 - 2 Plant seedbeds and flower gardens. Good days for transplanting. Fine planting days for potatoes, onions, carrots, beets, and other root crops.

September 3 – 6 Clear ground, turn sod, or kill plant pests.

material should not be taken from

Vol. 2, Issue 16

Planting material should be dipped in fungicide for 15-30 minutes before planting to control the pathogens which cause Burning Disease of Tannia. Fungicides include Ridomil or Rizolex at the rate of 30 g per U.S. gallon of water or Carbendazim at the rate of 5-10 ml per U.S. gallon of water.

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NEWSLETTER GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICE

Monday, August 30, 2021

Vol. 2, Issue 16

Grenadian Paralympic Team 2020

Ishona Charles

Kwame Hypolite - Chef de Mission