NEWSLETTER GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICE
Vol. 3, Issue 07
Monday, June 20, 2022
Prime Minister, Dr. the Rt. Hon. Keith Mitchell meets the CARICOM Chief of Mission John Jarvis
INSIDE
Prime Minister, Dr. the Rt. Hon. Keith Mitchell meets with OAS Election Observers
Prime Minister Meets With CARICOM and OAS Election Observers PAGE 03
PAGE 06
CONTINUED EFFORTS TO REGULARISE NURSES
PAGE 08
GOVERNMENT PROVIDES NEW LINE OF CREDIT FOR GDB
PAGE 09
PRIME MINISTER LAUNCHES GRENADA’S NATIONAL CYBERSECURITY INCIDENT RESPONSE TEAM
AND MUCH MORE...
Monday, June 20, 2022
NEWSLETTER
GIS NEWSLETTER
Vol. 3, Issue 07
2
Prime Minister Confirms International Observers Will Be in Grenada for June 23 General Elections
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 Sorana Mitchell Annette Moore Shere-Ann Noel June Paul Eugenia Peters DESIGN & LAYOUT Dwayne Francique EDITOR Annette Moore EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Philomena Robertson
Prime Minister, Dr. the Rt. Hon. Keith Mitchell has confirmed that international observers will be in Grenada for the June 23 poll.
Grenada’s Permanent Representative to the OAS, H.E Yolande Smith, and OAS Secretary General, Luis Almagro sign agreement.
Election observer missions will be mounted by the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and the Organisation of American States (OAS), which responded positively to invitations extended by the Prime Minister, following his announcement of the election date. In his letters, Dr. Mitchell said, “The independent observation of elections lends transparency and confidence to the electoral process.” He noted that while Grenada can boast of having very strong democratic institutions, it is important and necessary that the execution of the election process be observed and monitored by well-respected and credible organisations, particularly those that continue to be advocates for democracy and the strengthening and preservation of democratic institutions in the hemisphere. The OAS letter of acceptance stated, “The OAS remains committed to strengthening electoral processes in the Americas, through its observation and technical assistance efforts, and looks forward to working with the authorities of Grenada towards this end.” The OAS has already formalised arrangements for its eighth observer mission to Grenada, with the signing of an agreement by Grenada’s Permanent Representative to the OAS, Her Excellency Yolande Smith and the organisation’s Secretary General, Luis Almagro. In accepting the invitation, CARICOM informed that the necessary arrangements are already being put in place to facilitate the work of the election observation mission. Both organisations have mounted observer missions to monitor previous general elections in Grenada.
Monday, June 20, 2022
GIS NEWSLETTER
Prime Minister Meets With CARICOM And OAS Election Observers
Vol. 3, Issue 07
3
Grenada’s Prime Minister Among 41 Candidates Nominated to Contest General Elections on June 23
Prime Minister, Dr. the Rt. Hon. Keith Mitchell meets the CARICOM Chief of Mission John Jarvis
Prime Minister, Dr. the Rt. Hon. Keith Mitchell has reiterated Government’s commitment to transparency in the electoral process, with the presence of regional and international observer missions.
Grenada’s Prime Minister, Dr. the Rt. Hon. Keith Mitchell, was among 41 individuals who were
Over the past few days, the Prime Minister held meetings with
nominated as candidates to contest the Grenada
representatives of the election observer missions from the Caribbean
general elections on June 23, 2022.
Community (CARICOM) and the Organisation of American States (OAS). Dr. Mitchell, the incumbent candidate for St. In separate meetings with the observers, the Prime Minister welcomed the teams and underscored the importance of transparency.
George North West, has been the parliamentary representative for that constituency since 1984.
He said, “I am truly grateful that both CARICOM and the OAS accepted
The Prime Minister was accompanied by a large
the invitation to observe the general elections. Government has
group of constituents as he journeyed to the
consistently invited regional and international observers to monitor the electoral process. We are committed to the principles of good governance, particularly transparency and accountability and as
parliamentary elections office in Happy Hill, St. George on June 1.
such, we believe it is important for the regional and international community to witness the electoral process first hand. The system is not perfect. but we are proud of what we have been able to achieve,
After completing the nomination process, Dr.
and we will continue to make the necessary adjustments to further
Mitchell
improve the process.”
for the outpouring of love and support. The
In addition to monitoring the electoral process, the representatives of
expressed
profound
appreciation
Prime Minister extended congratulations to
both observer teams will engage in several other meetings as part of
all candidates who completed the nomination
their respective missions.
process. He also encouraged Grenadians to
The CARICOM Chief of Mission is John Jarvis, while the Chief of Mission for the OAS is Rosina Wiltshire.
exercise their democratic right to vote on June 23.
PRESS RELEASE
PRESS RELEASE Gloria Ann Thomas
NDC
Oliver Thomas Joseph NNP THE PARLIAMENTARY ELECTIONS OFFICE Phone: (473) 440-2357/2698 Fax (473) 440-4198 , E: electoralofficegnd@gmail.com Dickon Amiss Thomas Mitchell NDC St. David
THE PARLIAMENTARY ELECTIONS OFFICE
Phone: (473) 440-2357/2698 Fax (473) 440-4198 , E: electoralofficegnd@gmail.com
GIS NEWSLETTER Junior Francis Vol. 3, Issue 07
Monday, June 20, 2022
Nomination Day Report
Nomination Day Report Claudette Joseph
PRESS RELEASE Town of St. George
Charles Peter David
IFP
4
NDC NNP
At the close of nomination today, forty-one (41) individuals were nominated At the close of nomination today, forty-one (41) individuals were nominated THE PARLIAMENTARY ELECTIONS OFFICE as candidates for the General Elections of June 23, 2022 in Grenada as candidates for the General ElectionsRedhead of June 23, 2022 in NDC Grenada Ron Livingston Carriacou and Petite Martinique.
Phone: (473) 440-2357/2698 Fax (473) 440-4198 , E: electoralofficegnd@gmail.com
Nimrod Oliver Ollivierre NNP Carriacou and Petite Martinique. St. George North East Martin Washington GRP The National Democratic Congress (NDC) andEdwards the New National Party (NNP)
Nomination Day ReportKeith Claudius Mitchell
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New National Party (NNP)
nominated fifteen (15) candidates each. Nomination Day Report At the close of nomination forty-one individuals wereGrenada nominated as West candidates the General Jonathan La Crette St. George North Grenada Renaissance Party (GRP)today, nominated three (3) (41) candidates. Renaissance PartyGayton (GRP) for nominated three (3)Elections candidates.ofNDC nominated fifteen (15) candidates each.
NNP
Independent Freedom Party nominated threeand (3) candidates. Independent Freedom Party nominated three (3) candidates. June 23, 2022 in Grenada Carriacou Petite Martinique. The National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New National Bassanio Nicholas IFP Party (NNP) nominated candidates each. Grenada Renaissance Party (GRP) nominated three (3) candidates. Grenada United Labour Partyfifteen (GULP) (15) nominated four (4) candidates. Grenada United Labour Party (GULP) nominated four (4) candidates. NNP St. George South East Gregory Clarence Bowen At the close of nomination today, forty-one (41) individuals were nominated Independent Freedom Party nominated three (3) candidates. Grenada United Labour Party (GULP) nominated four (4) There was one (1) independent candidate. There was one (1) independent candidate. Dennyka Checkley GRP asone candidates for the candidate. General Elections of June 23, 2022 in Grenada candidates. There was (1) independent Phillip Alfred Telesford NDC
Carriacou and Petite Martinique.
Constituency
Mendell Glenon Samuel
NNP Party NDC
Grenada Renaissance Party (GRP) nominated three (3) candidates.Geoffrey Urias Lincoln
GULP
Carriacou and
St. John Kendra Beryl Maturine-Stewart NNP threeCarriacou and Independent Freedom Party nominated (3) candidates.
Petite Martinique
Tevin Camilloh Andrews NDCnominated Tevin Camilloh Andrews Petitefour Martinique Grenada United Labour Party (GULP) (4) candidates.
There was one (1) independent candidate.
St. Andrew South East Emmalin Celena Pierre David Andrew Yolande Bain-Horsford
St. Andrew South West Lennox Constituency John Andrews Jennel Karla Ramsee St. Andrew North East
Kate Lewis-Peters
Carriacou and Tessa St. Cyr
Petite Martinique
St. Andrew North West Delma Thomas
St. Andrew Oliver Thomas South Joseph East
Town of St. George
St. George North East
St. George North West
Tevin Camilloh Andrews NNP
NDC
IFP
Yolande Bain-Horsford June 1, 2022
St. Andrew South West Lennox John Andrews Claudette Joseph
NDC
St. Mark
Alvin Martin DaBreo
NNP NDC
Kerryne Zennelle Kenneale James
NDC
NDC
Joseph Andall Winston Earl Frederick
NNP Victor Dennis Selford Phillip Augustine NDC David
NNP NDC
Charles Peter David
Jennel Karla NNP Ramsee
IFP
St. Andrew North East
Kate Lewis-Peters
NNP
Ron Livingston Redhead
Tessa St. Cyr NDC
NDC
Nimrod Oliver Ollivierre
NNP
Martin Washington Edwards
GRP
Keith Claudius Mitchell
NNP
Gayton Jonathan La Crette
NDC
St. George South East Gregory Clarence Bowen
St. John
St. Patrick West
Emmalin Celena Pierre NNP
Bassanio Nicholas
St. George South
NNP
Modeste-Curwen Emmalin Celena Pierre St. Andrew South East Clarice David St. Mark NDC David Matthew Andrew Francis Quinc Sydon Peter Britton NNP Yolande Bain-Horsford St. Andrew South West Party NDCCandidates Lennox John Andrews Pamela Dale Moses St. Patrick East IFP Jennel Karla Ramsee Dennis Sylvester MatthewNNP St. Andrew North East Kate Lewis-Peters Cornwall Kendra Beryl Maturine-Stewart NNP NDC Tessa St. Cyr Nigel Martin John
Dickon Amiss Thomas Mitchell David Andrew NDC Junior Francis
Preudhomme Kendra Beryl Maturine-Stewart
NNP
Gloria Ann Thomas St. David
GRP
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) and St. theGeorge New National Party Norland(NNP) Sebastian Cox South Candidates Party Constituency Candidates nominated fifteen (15) candidates each. Andy Joseph Williams
IFP NNP
Dennyka Checkley
GRP
Phillip Alfred Telesford
NDC
Mendell Glenon Samuel
GRP
Norland Sebastian Cox
NNP
Andy Joseph Williams
NDC
Geoffrey Urias Lincoln
GULP
Preudhomme Alvin Martin DaBreo
NNP
Kerryne Zennelle Kenneale James
NDC
Clarice Modeste-Curwen
NNP
David Matthew Francis
GULP
NNP NNP GULP NDC NDC NNP
NDC NNP IFP NDC NNP NDC GULP NDC Independent NNP GULP
Monday, June 20, 2022
Replacement of an Expired Voter Identification Card and an Elector’s Right to Vote
GIS NEWSLETTER
Vol. 3, Issue 07
5
REGISTRATION OFFICERS, OFFICE LOCATIONS AND TELEPHONE NUMBERS REGISTRATION OFFICERS
CONSTITUENCY Carriacou & Petite Martinique
Geraldine Guy
St. Andrew South East
Shirleen Robertson
St. Andrew South West
Wayne Horsford
St. Andrew North East
Evan George Matthew Bhola
St. Andrew North West
Marcia Francis
St. David
Vincent Morain
Town of St. George
Stephen Raphael Croney
St. George North East
Barbara Charles
St. George North West
Kevin Francis
St. George South East
Glen Alexander
OFFICE LOCATIONS
TEL NOS.
Mr. Albert Alexis’ Building, Middle Street, Hillsborough Agriculture Office, Seaton James Street, Grenville La Qua’s Building, Gladstone Road, Grenville
443-6430 438-5248 438-5228 265
Mr. Henroy Davis’ Building, junction of Paradise and Cocoa Road
442-4068
Annex to Mr. Mitchell’s shop, Mirabeau Former NCB Building, Petite Esperance, St. David Communal Cooperative, Credit Union Building, Perdomontemps, St. David Bruce Street, St. George’s (Close to exit of Sendall Tunnel) Ground Floor of Deco’s Building, Tempe, St. George Dr. Alexis’ Building, The Greens, St. Paul’s, St. George Happy Hill, St. George (Two-storey building, Happy Hill main road after Shenda Road on the left in a northerly direction)
442-4367 444-6025 440-4037 435-5032 435-9476 440-5145
Marian Community Centre, Cocoa Road,
Marian, St. George GRENADA
440-6040
Government Gazette
The Parliamentary Elections Office (PEO) advises the public that an elector who does not replace his or her expired voter identification card CANNOT BE DENIED his or her right to vote on election day.
The right of a person to vote speaks to ‘if on polling day, he is qualified and registered as an elector in that constituency, and his name appears on the current list to be used for that constituency’. The presentation of the voter identification card is required to verify the identity of the individual who is voting. Therefore, electors are asked to present their voter identification cards before receiving a ballot. Any elector who holds an expired identification card with an expiry date, January 31, 2020, can present such a card when requested to present his or her voter identification card.
Any elector who is unable to produce his or her voter identification card because one was not issued, or it was either lost or destroyed, will be required to take an oath before receiving his or her ballot.
Dr. Alexis Building, St. Paul’s, St. George
435-9477
Limes Road, Grand Anse, St. George (First (EXTRAORDINARY) building on the right entering the Limes 439-7108 Road) St. George South Cheryl Ann Dunbar Springs, St. George (Next to Liz and Rawle 443-3726 Restaurant) VOL. 140] SAINT GEORGE’S, WEDNESDAY, MAY 18, 2022 [No. 30 Langton Road, Gouyave, St. John St. John Catherine Hamlet (Downstairs Mr. Carlton Frederick’s 437-1319 Building on Langton Road (SECTION 37) REPRESENTATION OF THE PEOPLE ACT, CAP. 286A Queen Street, Victoria, St. Mark NOTICE St. Mark Samuel Britton OF ISSUANCE (DownstairsOF Ms.WRITS Louise George’s 437-1101 residence, opposite the Fish Market Pursuant to Section 37 of the Representation of the People Act, Cap. 286A, the Supervisor of Elections Excellency the Governor-General on the 17thBuilding) May 2022 issued Writs under St.hereby Patrick gives East notice that Her Chrislyn LaBorde Sauteurs, St. has Patrick (GIDC 442-0776 the Public Seal addressed to the Returning Officers for the respective Constituencies for which members are to be returned. Sauteurs, St. Patrick (GIDC Building) St. Patrick West Jennifer Charles 442-0777 AND FURTHER, TAKE NOTICE that the day for nomination of candidates shall be the 1st June, 2022 at the places and times set out hereunder.
Published by Authority
Elvis Morain (Mr.)
SUPERVISOR OF ELECTIONS (AG.) PARLIAMENTARY ELECTIONS OFFICE
June 9, 2022
RETURNING OFFICERS, OFFICE LOCATIONS AND TELEPHONE NUMBERS CONSTITUENCY OF RETURNING OFFICE LOCATIONS TEL. NOS OFFICERS Carriacou & Petite Wilma Stewart Mr. Herbert Alexis’ Building, Middle 443-6430 Martinique Street, Hillsborough St. Andrew South East Shirleen Robertson Agriculture Office, Seaton James 438-5248 Street, Grenville St. Andrew South West Wayne Horsford La Qua’s Building, 438-5228 Gladstone Road, Grenville St. Andrew North East Evan George Mr. Henroy Davis’ Building, junction 442-4068 Matthew Bhola of Paradise and Cocoa Road St. Andrew North West Marcia Francis Annex to Mr. Mitchell’s shop, 442-4367 Mirabeau St. David Vincent Morain The former NCB Building, 444-6025 Petite Esperance, St. David 266 GOVERNMENT GAZETTE, WEDNESDAY, MAY 18, 2022 — (No. 30) Town of St. George Stephen Raphael Bruce Street, close to exit of Sendall 440-4037 Croney Tunnel St. George North East
Barbara Charles
St. George North West
Kevin Francis
St. George South East
Glen Alexander
St. George South St. John
Cheryl Ann Dunbar Catherine Hamlet
St. Mark
Samuel Britton
St. Patrick East St. Patrick West
Chrislyn LaBorde Jennifer Charles
Deco’s Building Complex, Tempe Two-storey building, Happy Hill main road on the left after the Shenda Road in a northerly direction Dr. Alexis’ Building, The Greens, St. Paul’s Springs main road, Café junction Downstairs Mr. Carlton Frederick’s Building, Langton Road Downstairs Ms. Louise George’s Building, Queen Street, Victoria GIDC Building, Sauteurs GIDC Building, Sauteurs
435-5032 440-5145 435-9477 443-3726 437-1319 437-1101 442-0776 442-0777
Constituency Offices are opened Monday to Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Nomination forms could be collected during the afore-mentioned hours. However on nomination day all offices would be opened during the hours of 9:00 a.m. to 12 noon for receipt of nominations. FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that the day on which, if necessary, the poll shall be taken, being not less than fifteen (15) and not more than twenty-one (21) days after the said nomination day, shall be on 23rd June, 2022.
GIS NEWSLETTER
Monday, June 20, 2022
Vol. 3, Issue 07
6
Continued Efforts to Regularise Nurses Acting Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health, Hannah Julien-St. Paul, said more than 50 nursing assistants are likely be given permanent establishment within the public service by the end of June 2022, as Government continues regularising the status of health care workers.
Government, through the Ministry of Health, has been engaged in ongoing consultations with the union representing nurses and other stakeholders. The process of regularisation allows the ministry to fill vacant positions within the public service. Over a six-year period, 91 nurses and 28 nursing assistants have been regularised. In 2017, 22 nurses were regularized; in 2018 23 nurses and 19 assistants; in 2019, 35 nurses; in 2020, three nurses and nine assistants and, in 2022, seven nurses were given permanent positions. During a recent Post Cabinet Press Briefing, Julien-St. Paul said they have reviewed a cadre of nurses who are qualified to fill these vacant
positions. Julien St. Paul affirmed that The licensed nursing assistants Government continues to advocate commenced duty effective June 1, for, and support the professional development of nurses, which augurs 2022. well for improvement in healthcare delivery. It is anticipated that the regularisation In addition to that, she said, “The of nurses will help to strengthen the ministry also completed the training of two batches of nursing assistants country’s primary healthcare services, during the period 2020-2022. Most of in light of the increase in chronic nonthem have been licensed for practice with the Grenada Nursing Council.” communicable diseases.
Government Continues to Invest in Healthcare Professionals The Government of Grenada has reaffirmed its commitment to continue to invest in nurses and healthcare professionals, as part of the overall improvement of the health sector. During a Post Cabinet Press Briefing on May 31, Hannah Julien St. Paul, Acting Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health with responsibility for Hospital and Community Health Services, revealed that the ministry is collaborating with the T.A. Marryshow Community College to provide registered nurses with training in midwifery over the next three years, starting in August 2022. She said, “This training programme will support the professional development and enhancement of our nurses and also add to the ministry’s mix of nursing personnel to address the health needs of the population. The Ministry of Health is also in discussion with St. George’s University on the development of a certificate programme in critical care nursing.”
Monday, June 20, 2022
GIS NEWSLETTER
Vol. 3, Issue 07
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Community Nursing Division Honours Nurses The invaluable contribution, unwavering dedication to the delivery of health care and the numerous sacrifices made by community health nurses across Grenada were recognised by the Community Nursing Division of the Ministry of Health during a recent appreciation and awards ceremony at Pier-57. Awards were presented in the following categories: Outstanding awardees: • Nursing Assistant: Tessa Smith • Registered Nurse: Delise Edwards-Joseph • District Nurse: Laurel Alexander Community Health Nurses/Supervisors: • Darnette Blair-St. Bernard – CHN Carriacou/P.M. Health District • Naomi Thomas – (CHN) St. Andrew Health District • Suzelle Nedd – (CHN) St. John Health District • Rowan Antoine – (CHN) St. George Health District • Phebe Antoine – (RN) St. David Health District • Nisha Noel-Alexander - (RN) St. Patrick Health District Special Awardees: • Meryl Hutchinson McQueen – Surveillance Officer • Sherrie Duncan-Rae (DN) • Dennis Jules-Edwards (RN) • Rhonda Thompson (SCHN) • Audrey Lyons SCHN) - EPI Manager of Grenada • Carol Telesford-Charles (CCHN of Grenada)
GIS NEWSLETTER
Monday, June 20, 2022
Vol. 3, Issue 07
8
Government Provides New Line of Credit for GDB Government has approved a new line of credit for the Grenada Development Bank (GDB), in the sum of $15 million, to support the bank’s operations and programmes. The new line of credit was made available to GDB at a 1% interest rate, which allows the bank to maintain its low interest rate to borrowers. Grenadians can access funds from the new line of credit at an interest rate of 4%. Alistair Bain, representative of the Ministry of Finance on the GDB Board of Directors, explained that the new line of credit includes a $10 million allocation for mortgage financing and $5 million for education, which includes $1 million specifically for vulnerable students and which will be provided with no security. Bain said the $1 million allocated for marginalised students is a direct response to the challenges some individuals have faced for years when they lack security to support their loan application.
students.
“We also have a line from the Caribbean Development Bank for a special student loan and, under that particular credit line, we still have about $400,000 that has not been disbursed to date. For the special students loan, we have some built-in caveats, for example, The Caribbean Development Bank also the vulnerability threshold has to be has special provisions for marginalised established by a committee from the
Ministry of Social Development,” Bain said. “The Development Bank is there to provide funding especially for persons who are challenged to be able to access development funding and we want to maintain that sort of portfolio. We are not here to compete with the commercial banks, we are there to provide that development support for all our sectors including our human capital.”
GDB Says Performance Boosts Confidence The Grenada Development Bank (GDB) is boasting of excellent performance over the years that has boosted Government’s confidence in the bank’s management and operation. Alistair Bain, representative of the Ministry of Finance on the GDB Board of Directors, said due to the bank’s performance, Government continues to invest in and support its programmes. He said, last year, the bank recorded its best performance with the highest level of loan disbursements, which did not include Government-funded initiatives. At the end of 2021, the bank’s non-performance portfolio was 2.1% following almost 20 years of being in excess of the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank’s 5% benchmark. Bain said, “In 2021, the bank disbursed $20.8 million in loan financing outside of MSME loans.” Another remarkable achievement by the bank is the ability to pay dividends to Government, its major shareholder. Bain explained that dividends were paid constantly for the past five years.
Representative of the Ministry of Finance on the GDB Board of Directors, Alistair Bain
GIS NEWSLETTER
Monday, June 20, 2022
Vol. 3, Issue 07
9
Prime Minister Launches Grenada’s National Cybersecurity Incident proper frameworks are put in place, so Response Team that our young entrepreneurs can harness the benefits afforded by the digital transformation efforts”.
Prime Minister and Minister for ICT Dr. the Rt. Hon. Keith Mitchell
Grenada now has a National Cyber Security Incident Response Team (CSIRT). Prime Minister and Minister for ICT, Dr. the Rt. Hon. Keith Mitchell, officially launched the team, which will provide a central point for support and advice relevant to cybersecurity and is a critical element of the overall ICT ecosystem. Dr. Mitchell, who is also the Lead Head for Science and Technology in the CARICOM Quasi Cabinet, spoke of Government’s commitment to “ensuring that the
The advent of the digital revolution has brought about a proliferation of cybercrimes worldwide. Grenada has faced its own challenges, with the impersonation of public personalities, identity and credit card theft and email-based scams, also known as phishing. Ultimately, Government intends to create a national cybersecurity agency. Dr. Mitchell also noted that Government has already put in place the enabling framework and legislation to govern the IT space and implemented the Information Management Plan. This, he explained, “Seeks to ensure the safety and credibility of Government’s e-commerce platforms and the safety of public documents and records, including sensitive client information and documents.” Explaining the significance of the newly launched team, IT Officer, Jervis Dabreo said CSIRT is focused on investigating and analysing cyber incidents.
IT Officer, Jervis Dabeo
He said, “We are the people you turn to when you receive that email or text message you’re unsure about; if you need someone to verify a website for you: to provide cyber awareness training and tips.” Speaking virtually, Jennifer Britton of the CARICOM Secretariat in Guyana, said, “There are not yet enough formal CSIRT teams in the CARICOM region, therefore I urge this new team to reach out to the rest of the OECS and CARICOM, in your role as forerunners and encourage them to work on the formation of national, sub-regional and regional CSIRTs.”
Government Encourages Vigilance Among Windows Users In Face of Cyber Security Threat The Government of Grenada is advising public officers and other users of computers, using Microsoft Windows as their operating system, to exercise extreme caution when accessing email attachments, particularly from unknown senders. The word of caution is issued against the backdrop of a current cyber threat, which can compromise Windows machines through Microsoft Office files such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint and RTF. The recently launched Cyber Security Incident Response Team (CSIRT) advises that the safest option is to refrain from opening emails and downloading attachments from unknown senders. Explaining the gravity of the threat, IT Officer in the Ministry of ICT and member of CSIRT, Jervis Dabreo said, “Computers and computer networks and servers can become compromised if a user downloads or opens a malicious file. This action can result in malicious codes being executed and the attacker gaining access to the computer with the privileges of the logged in user. Some servers are also Windows-based and, as such, if a computer within the network becomes compromised, the server can also be at risk.”
As a general rule, the CSIRT advises that software updates should be installed as they come available to computer users and this includes system and application updates for mobile devices and Internet of Things (IoT) devices.
Microsoft has since issued a fix for the cyber threat and the CSIRT is encouraging all users of the Microsoft Windows operating system to update their computers, to reduce their vulnerability to this particular threat.
In addition to providing new features or improvements to existing features, software updates often address security flaws and remove software bugs.
Monday, June 20, 2022
GIS NEWSLETTER
Vol. 3, Issue 07
10
Grenadians Honoured
Several Grenadians have been honoured as part of Her Majesty the Queen’s Birthday honours for 2022. The Order of the British Empire (OBE) is being awarded to Richard Duncan for services to the banking sector; Member of the British Empire MBE to Dr. Valma Jessamy for services to the environment, to manufacturing and to eco-tourism and to Anderson Peters for services to sport. Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth has also approved the award of the British Empire Medal (Civil Division) to the Allyson Clouden for services to nursing, Desmond Gill for services to fishing and John Wells for services to farming.
GIS NEWSLETTER
Monday, June 20, 2022
Vol. 3, Issue 07
11
Governor General Attends Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Celebrations in London, United Kingdom Grenada’s Governor General, Her Excellency Dame Cécile La Grenade, participated in Her Majesty the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations, in London, United Kingdom, which concluded on June 5. The celebrations, which began on June 2, mark seven decades on the throne for Her Majesty. Dame La Grenade said, “As Governor General of Grenada, it is indeed an honour for me to represent my country at the celebrations marking the unprecedented anniversary of 70 years of service by Her Majesty the Queen to the people of the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth. On this most special occasion, Grenada extends its heartfelt wishes to Her Majesty for peace, prosperity and good health.” During her stay in London, Her Excellency met with other Governors General and officials from across the Commonwealth. She was accompanied by security officer, Neal Marvin Martin Raymond. Grenada’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Kisha Grant, also participated in the Platinum Jubilee Celebration.
Her Excellency Dame Cécile La Grenade with security officer, Neal Marvin Martin Raymond
National Disaster Management Bill Ready to Be Tabled in Parliament Minister with responsibility for Disaster Management, Sen. Winston Garraway, said the National Disaster Management Bill has been completed and is ready to be tabled in Parliament. In a message to mark the start of the Atlantic Hurricane Season, Sen. Winston Garraway said, “This legislative framework equips critical stakeholders with the tools needed to make systemic changes for improved disaster risk management. This legislative agenda
was further supported with technical assistance from the World Bank and the
Caribbean
Disaster
Emergency
Management Agency in the following areas:
communication
messages
specific
to
to
create
vulnerable
groups; update the national hurricane plan; review and update notification procedures and emergency operations center manual and build capacity through training of staff and key personnel in EOC management.”
Minister with responsibility for Disaster Management, Sen. Winston Garraway
TOURISM
Monday, June 20, 2022
GIS NEWSLETTER
Vol. 3, Issue 07
12
Grenada Welcomes an October Resumption of Air Canada Nonstop Service
Grenada Tourism Authority Meets With Air Canada: From L to R: Sebastian Domanski; Audrey Tanguay Beaudette; Rui Freire; Christopher Kanatselis; Mazin lbushra, Manager; CEO, Grenada Tourism Authority, Petra Roach; Sekou Stroude, Director of Sales – Canada, Grenada Tourism Authority
Minister for Tourism, Civil Aviation, Climate Resilience and the that Grenada is pacing ahead of 2019 numbers and group Environment, Hon. Clarice Modeste-Curwen, has announced business is up 37%. the resumption of Air Canada’s direct service between Toronto Air Canada’s service resumption comes on the heels of a recent and Grenada. visit to Canada by Chief Executive Officer of the Grenada The nonstop service, which will commence on October 30, Tourism Authority, Petra Roach, during which she met with 2022, will be provided twice weekly on Sundays and Thursdays. industry stakeholders to share developmental plans for the growth of the market and to agree on collaborative initiatives Minister Modeste-Curwen stated, “The return of Air Canada to drive business for the winter season. is welcome news at a time when accessibility and travel convenience are key to attracting international visitors. The CEO remarked, “Canada is recognised as one of the most Canadian arrival numbers have remained strong, in spite of the important tourist generating markets in the world with 41% of absence of direct service, so we know that the demand is there. Canadians choosing beach destinations. To that end, Grenada We are committed to working alongside our airline partners to continues to be a firm favourite amongst Canadian travelers with a typical stay of up to 10 days on island. This market has ensure continuous connectivity to our country.” continued to grow over the years and delivers a great return Diana Rodriguez, Product Director, Air Canada Vacations noted on investment.”
Monday, June 20, 2022
GIS NEWSLETTER
Vol. 3, Issue 07
13
Government Expanding Its Empowerment Agenda:
$100 Million for 100 Thousand
Government is moving forward with plans to launch an empowerment agenda, which will refocus and expand efforts to alleviate poverty within key communities and sectors. Prime Minister Dr. the Rt. Hon. Keith Mitchell has emphasised Government’s thrust to invest more in the country’s human resources, as the country declares war on poverty. He said although Government now has a new obligation to make pension payments to public officers, there is also an obligation to ensure that all sectors benefit from key investments.
He said, “Prior to the issue of this now due pension, this government was actively considering a programme we would have described as $100 million for 100,000, where over the next five years we plan to spend over $100 million each year, making direct investments in working people, in a daring and ambitious and open declaration of war on poverty. We are still determined to expand that empowerment agenda but we may be forced to review some of its aspects given this new liability.”
Government Considers Constructing Small Housing Schemes Government is identifying land to construct small housing schemes within various parishes, as it continues to provide assistance to families.
handed over under the China/Grenada Low-Income Housing project, the housing schemes will provide much needed relief and support to families.
Housing Minister Hon. Delma Thomas said the initiative forms part of Government’s thrust to address the housing issues many families face. She said for years Government has been placing significant emphasis on housing assistance, through partnership with the People’s Republic of China, the Grenada Housing Authority and other agencies. Minister Thomas is optimistic that, in addition to the hundreds of units
“We have discussed that government will use local revenues to set up housing schemes,” Hon. Thomas said. “What we are looking at is finalizing lands in the different parishes and maybe different constituencies, where we can maybe have 30 units or houses per constituency.” According to Minister Thomas, housing is one of the biggest needs among Grenadians.
Housing Minister, Hon. Delma Thomas
Monday, June 20, 2022
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SGU Alumnus Donates Supplies to General Hospital
Members of the Grenada COVID-19 Crisis Group have partnered with the St. George’s University to donate laptops, iPads and other supplies to the General Hospital, as part of ongoing efforts by the diaspora to help improve healthcare in Grenada.
He explained, “I worked along with the president of the Grenadians United in Virginia, and we sourced the computers. We are proud and we are continuing to support this venture and with these computers we’re
supporting the continued improvement of health care on our island as we try to merge different sections together and get out to the communities.”
and Vice Provost at SGU Brendan La Grenade, extended their gratitude to Dr. Matthias and people in the diaspora for their ongoing commitment Acting Chief Medical to Grenada’s healthcare Officer Dr. Shawn Charles sector.
Grenada-born SGU alumnus, Dr. Dwight Matthias, recently returned to Grenada and donated the equipment. Part of the group’s initial campaign during the pandemic was to gather funds and supplies to assist healthcare workers on the ground to treat those who have contracted the virus. Dr. Matthias said he is happy to provide support to the healthcare sector. Donated Items
CULTURE
Monday, June 20, 2022
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Division of Culture Completes Three-Day Calypso Arts Workshop for Schools
More than 50 students and their teachers benefitted from interactive sessions on the history, categories, and composition of calypso during a series of workshops organised by the Division of Culture. The workshops were held at the three locations across Grenada. Facilitators included some of the icons of calypso in Grenada: Elwyn McQuilkin (Black Wizard), Edison Francis (Teacher Eddy) and Kelly Clyne (Rootsman Kelly). Rootsman Kelly expressed how pleased he was with the participation and interest of the students in knowing more about the calypso art form. He also commended the Ministry of Culture on what he dubbed a great initiative. Two Form 3 students from the Wesley College, who participated in the workshop, shared their reasons for participating in the calypso workshop. Martha Bartholomew said she loves calypso, has a passion for singing and aspires to become a calypsonian someday; Kalique Garraway, on the other hand, said he would like to be involved in the music industry to be able to help his family and build a proper life. Based on the participation of the students over the three days, culture officials are optimistic that there’s a future for calypso here in Grenada. Berkley Brathwaite, calypso arts tutor at the Division of Culture, said he was pleased with presentations by the facilitators, who made the sessions fun and interesting. The Division of Culture organises two workshops on calypso annually. The next workshop scheduled to take place in November 2022.
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Presentation of Grenada’s Actions and Recommendations to Achieve Better Production The Ministry of Agriculture is pursuing several targeted strategies to achieve better production, that will create a more sustainable and resilient food system.
community to expand the acreages that are under production and, focusing on new technologies such as protective structures, irrigation, solar powered pumps etcetera, and also looking at research into new crop varieties and focusing also on crop production data, which has been a challenge for our farmers to be able to access resources from the commercial entities.”
Having dubbed 2022 as the year for “Innovation and Transformation”, the Ministry continues with several projects and plans to transform the agri-food system. Acting Chief Agricultural Officer, Trevor Thompson, gave a progress Thompson also spoke of the need to report at the 37th Regional conference place greater emphasis on climate of Latin America and the Caribbean, variability. which was recently held in Ecuador. “Government has allocated $47 million “At the national level, Grenada has towards rehabilitating farm roads across been focusing on the issue of drafting, the island, so that we could increase adopting and implementing national those acreages under production. legislations that look at the issue of Providing support for the propagating land and its management, with an stations, to increase the production emphasis on soil management. This is of planting material that is then made extremely important for sustainable available to farmers, is also a priority. national development, but also to build We have been working very closely with resilience in the agriculture sector, the Food and Agriculture Organisation which is urgently needed,” Thompson in implementing a National Land said. “Providing support to the farming Bank Project, which is also targeted at
Acting Chief Agricultural Officer, Trevor Thompson
bringing idle Government and private lands into production with a focus on youth in agriculture.” Government is also discussing efficient labour systems and increased opportunities for private sector investment, including the development of proposals for research facilities for research into tissue culture and new crop varieties.
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Pilot Agricultural Land Bank Project The Ministry of Agriculture has reached an important phase in the implementation of the Pilot Agricultural Land Bank Project, which seeks to secure the rights of young people to access land.
The project, which is a collaborative initiative between the Ministry of Agriculture, Lands and Forestry and the Food and Agriculture Organisation, was officially launched in July 2017. It aims to put idle or underutilised land back into full production and transform the sector. One of the major components of this project is the agribusiness training, which was successfully completed in 2021, in partnership with the Grenada Investment Development Corporation (GIDC). Minister for Agriculture Hon. Peter David said government will work, firstly, with the pilot site in Grand Bacolet and then another at Diamond, St. Mark.
to bringing other persons from outside of Grand Bacolet to do the farming on the estate, there are persons who have lived in Grand Bacolet for years and who we will include in the project and give them the support they need in order to He said, “We are going to award persons succeed.” on the Grand Bacolet project leases to land so that they can conduct their Hon. David invited persons to continue business, while we at the Ministry of to apply, saying, ”here is more land Agriculture continue to give all of the available in Grand Bacolet, Diamond support that we can give. In addition and throughout the country on the
Government’s side. In addition to that, we are hoping that the private sector will get involved in this, either using our land bank arrangement or similar arrangements on their side.” Acting Chief Agricultural Officer Trevor Thompson said of all the countries implementing the same FAO supported project, Grenada has made the most advancements.
Monday, June 20, 2022
1. The building should be of solid construction, meaning the wooden structure be anchored in a concrete base, which will prevent water seepage into the pen and lend support to the framework. 2. The roof must be completely waterproof and should project three feet beyond all walls (over the sides of the pen). 3. The house must be wild-bird proof. The wire mesh should meet the galvanise at the top of the pen. 4. The floor should be concrete to enable easy cleaning and disinfecting and easy removal of all litter material from the pen to prepare for the next batch of birds. NB: Concrete floor is optional. 5. The house should have sufficient light and ventilation at all time. Therefore, the house should be at least eight to 10 feet high, with wire mesh surrounding the entire structure and at least one row of blocks to hold the litter material. 6. There must be sufficient space per bird for easier movements, so that they can obtain sufficient feed and water. For example, broilers should be one square foot per bird and, layers, 2 ¼ square feet per bird. Information: Vet & Livestock Department Ministry of Agriculture
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Monday, June 20, 2022
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New Bridges to Be Constructed in River Road Two new bridges will be built in River Road as part of the wider St. John’s River Project. Minister for Infrastructure Development, Hon. Norland Cox said while they would have preferred to keep the humpback bridge for historical purposes, it must be rebuilt. The humpback bridge, along with the bridge in the vicinity of Steele’s Auto, are both too low and actually impede the flow of water in the river when it rises during heavy rains. Sen. Cox said the bridges will need to be removed for safety reasons and to protect the investment being made to correct the flooding problem in River Road. He also spoke of plans to address the situation at the bridge next to Steele’s Auto.
From in Line to Online The Inland Revenue Department of the Ministry of Finance is receiving positive feedback from the public during the testing of its ability to send demand notices to taxpayers via email. Taxpayers who are property owners and have provided their email addresses, have been receiving copies of their 2022 notice via email. Deputy Comptroller of the IRD with responsibility for headquarters, Randy Boyke-Cadet said taxpayers who have already paid for 2022 should not be alarmed if notified. He said, “We believe that if we educate our taxpayers, if we provide better services, then our compliance rates will increase across tax types.” Taxpayers who have not received an email from the IRD are encouraged to contact the division or register online at tax.gov. gd to update the database with a correct email address. Taxpayers who pay their property taxes before June 30, 2022, can be eligible for a 5% discount.
Minister for Infrastructure Development Hon. Norland Cox
Derelict Vehicles Cleanup Project
The Grenada Solid Waste Management Authority and its partners are reporting a positive response and compliance with the Derelict Vehicle Cleanup Project which was launched in early 2022.
It is a collaborative effort of the Ministries of Infrastructure Development, Public Utilities, Transport and Implementation; Health and Climate Resilience; the Royal Grenada Police Force and the Grenada Solid Waste Management Authority. A private partner is also involved. Allen Gilbert, Integrated Resource Manager at the Grenada Solid Waste Management Authority and Project Coordinator for the National Derelict Vehicle Cleanup Project, said he is happy that Grenada is moving to address the problem. He said, “Derelict vehicles have been posing quite a challenge to our nation on many fronts. First, to the police, who sometimes have to go into areas to conduct operations and are hindered by derelict vehicles, and also other utility operators such as the firetrucks, which are larger in width than other vehicles. There’s also an unsightliness that goes along with derelict vehicles and they also harbour vermin and rodents etc. This project will address public health issues, environmental health issues, solid waste management issues, tourism issues. All in all, it’s a very important and timely national project.”
PROJECT UPDATE
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Work on Mt. Kumar Road Progressing Significant progress is being made at the Mt. Kumar bypass road to create easier access to the western side of the island. The bypass road will ease the strain on traffic passing through Mt. Moritz when work on the Moliniere Land slippage begins. Joseph Gilbert of Gilbert and Partners Engineering Company said the road now fully connects Grenville Vale and Beaulieu. “The project is now about 70 percent complete. We are at the stage that can be called the peak stage of construction. We are doing box drains, slipper drains and the bridge. The pre-stress channels for the bridge are here. Now, all that’s left to do is get them on site and put it in place. The bridge, itself, is about 80 percent complete,” Gilbert explained. There have been some delays in the execution of the project, which is expected to be completed in three months. There have been some minor changes to the original designs to make traversing on the road safer for motorists. Gilbert said, “We have a very competent workforce and over 40 people are now employed with several being from the area.”
PROJECT UPDATE
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Packages Three and Four of St Johns River Flood Mitigation Project To Be Completed Soon Infrastructure Development Minister, Sen. Norland Cox, said following their engagement with at least three suppliers, Grenada will be able to meet the demand for asphalt by the first quarter of 2022.
private projects.
He said, “We know that there will be some challenges on the input side and the consumables and getting them here because of shipping et cetera and we know that price is going to be an issue in 2022, because with the COVID-19 spike, that is going to affect shipping outside of Grenada, but we are monitoring the situation. We are ready to go.”
The product, which has been in short supply, is needed to complete road rehabilitation and other projects. During the GIS Year in Review Programme, Senator Cox explained that projects due to commence this year, will not be affected by the shortage of Minister Cox said the supply of asphalt, as there will be an ample concrete ready mix will also be supply for both government and addressed in 2022.
Construction of 1,600 feet of retaining wall is now complete, along with 440 of the 600 feet of gabion basket required to complete work in packages three and four of the St. John’s River Flood Mitigation Project. Speaking to GIS on June 3, Desmond John of Sonrise Construction Company Ltd., said despite setbacks due to the unavailability of material and inclement weather, his team is working towards completion. “Package four, I would say, is about 97% complete, and package three is about 94% complete. June 15 is the target date for completion of both projects. All infrastructure work has already been done. The required amount of concrete has been poured. We are working on the gabion baskets and back filling behind the retaining walls,” John said. He noted that the gabion baskets are designed to withstand the pressure from the heavy down flow of the river. He explained, “The concept of the gabion baskets is that it will blend into the vegetative structure of the river, then you will have it intertwined with vines and vegetative matter and roots. When we do the backfill, we slope it from the height of the gabion baskets to the existing banks. By the time the roots of vegetation are established, everything will be fine.”
PROJECT UPDATE
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Refurbished River Sallee Pre-Primary School
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PROJECT UPDATE
Monday, June 20, 2022
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Hillsborough Botanical Garden Revitalisation Project Officially Launched
NEWSLETTER GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICE
Monday, June 20, 2022
Vol. 3, Issue 07
Special Victims Unit Launches Billboard and Education Drive The Special Victims Unit, partnering with the Ministry of Social Development, has unveiled the first in a series of billboards to build awareness and promote its 400 hotline number. The billboard was erected at the upper level of the St. George’s Bus Terminal. The initiative is being implemented in conjunction with the European Union, Pan American Health Organisation and the United Nations’ Spotlight Initiative, which is geared towards ending all forms of violence against women and girls. In 2021, 363 sexual crimes including incest, assault, rape and intercourse with minors were reported.
Acting Commissioner of Police, Michael Francois
made to the SVU, saying, “Under the spotlight initiative, the SVU has been outfitted with equipment to aid in the out-
Acting Commissioner of Police, Michael Francois said, “The establishment of the 400 hotline was critical to ensure that the public can report these crimes in a timely manner and receive the expected response. The erection of these billboards at conspicuous points throughout the state and promoting the 400 number will act as a reminder to all citizens of the ease in reaching help when needed.” Inspector in charge of the Special Victims Unit, Maureen John, is pleased with the new developments and said more can be expected in the coming months. She emphasised that the unit will maintain its zero-tolerance approach to violence against women and girls. John said, “This 400-hotline number will create an avenue for the voiceless, for with or without money on their mobile phones they can access help by just dialing this number.” Head of the Gender-Based Violence Unit in the Ministry of Social Development, Nicole Pitt, explained enhancements
of-base response and to offer improved services to their clients. Some new functions have been operationalised, and, soon we expect to see the training of police officers in conducting interviews with vulnerable clients. They have also contributed significantly to the attainment of many of the objectives of the spotlight initiative.”