Recent deportee Can we reduce Reopening of schools: Phased approach to has no family our food import accommodate CXC on island bill? exams PAGE 10 PAGE 4 PAGE 8 NOW• Vol-01 • Edi-03 • 31 May 2020 SUNDAY • WWW.NOWGRENADA.COM Covid-19 Cases Bedwetting NORTH AMERICA

Total Deaths Active North America 2,040,833 123,472 1,249,099 minor forced to USA 1,816,820 105,557 1,176,025 Canada 90,190 7,073 35,014 Mexico 84,627 9,415 15,602 Dominican Republic 16,908 498 6,853 sleep in “cage- Panama 13,018 330 3,274 Honduras 4,886 199 4,159 Guatemala 4,607 90 3,869 El Salvador 2,395 44 1,325 like” shed 2,025 83 147 Haiti 1,584 35 1,527 Costa Rica 1,047 10 379 Nicaragua 759 35 354 Jamaica 575 9 277 200 14 88 162 14 10 141 1 72 140 9 39 Trinidad and Tobago 116 8 0 Bahamas 102 11 43 Aruba 101 3 0 92 7 9 77 15 2 Saint Martin 41 3 5 St. Vincent Grenadines 26 11 LINDA STRAKER family home contained a mattress a human being. He is physically, for the child to use at nights. The emotionally and verbally abused and Barbuda 25 3 3 minor, who is male and under 10, by his mother and others,” said the Grenada 23 5 • Under-10 male minor sleeps in remained in squalid living condi- community member who drew the outside extension as punish- tions for months before the situa- plight of the minor to this writer. Curaçao 19 1 4 ment for bedwetting tion was drawn to the attention of People aware of the situation ex- Belize 18 2 0 • Investigation launched but not the relevant authorities. plained that the minor and his fam- much done An investigation was launched ily members are both vulnerable 18 0 • Child Protection Author- but not much was done to create a and marginalised and need social Dominica 16 0 ity (CPA) and police admit to better environment for the family assistance. The minor once resided knowing about the situation nor the child. with his mother’s parents, but had and 15 0 A minor in a rural community in “The family told the police the to be removed because of their Greenland 13 2 the parish of St John has for more cage extension is for family use, health conditions and inability to than a year been made to sleep in and with that reason, nothing else care for themselves properly. “They Turks and Caicos 12 1 1 an outside “cage-like extension” of happened. However, within days, cannot take care of themselves the family home as punishment for he was back again in the cage be- properly so it’s not easy for them to 11 1 0 wetting his bed at night. “His step- cause the police seemed to forget care for him, and he ended up by 8 1 0 father doesn’t like him because he the matter,” the community mem- his mother who from all indications is wetting the bed and so he builds ber said. agreed for him to sleep in the cage,” Netherlands 6 0 the cage for him to sleep in,” said Calls to several people in the the community member added. St. Barth 6 0 a community member. “Many chil- community confirmed the degrad- As of Friday, 29 May 2020, both dren wet the bed, so I cannot un- ed sleeping area exists, and they the Child Protection Authority (CPA) 3 0 derstand why his mother will allow expressed concern about the long- and the police admitted to knowing Saint Pierre Miquelon 1 0 that to happen,” he added. term negative impact it will have about the situation and were re- Made from metal roofing, the ex- on the primary school student. served when asked to confirm that Source: Worldometers.info tension attached to the side of the “This child is treated as if he is not a new investigation is ongoing. Service Protection Efficiency

Personal Coverage Business Coverage 24-Hour Householders’ comprehensive Commercial property Roadside Assistance Private motor Contractors’ all risks All risks Liability App

Netherlands Building, Grand Anse Telephone: +1 (473) 444 3012 Online: www.netherlands.co.gd SUNDAY NOWGRENADA 3 Community Vol-01 • Edi-01 • 31 May 2020 Rotary Club of Grenada’s Response to Covid-19

Physical distancing protocol must be other Friends of Rotary pro- before self.” vided pre-packaged ham- We thank all who donated pers to over 150 families funds especially during these adhered to throughout Grenada. The difficult times. We anticipate team lead for the hamper an increase in persons need- The Royal Grenada Police Force (RGPF) is concerned project, Rotarian Nahla Ha- ing more food supplies since about the increasing number of persons who in recent deed, said, “Society is facing many businesses remain times are violating the emergency powers regulations. Service its greatest threat in over a closed or are operating with We remind the general public that despite the easement century. We have a moral significantly reduced hours. allowed, Grenada continues to be under a State of Emer- obligation as Rotarians to Should anyone wish to con- gency. As such, all persons must be guided by the Covid-19 safeguard our communities tribute to supporting any Regulations which was last updated on 27 May 2020. and provide support where future extremely important The RGPF is concerned about the trend in which large Protection Rotarian Nahla Hadeed it is most needed. Our ac- food drives, feel free to con- groups of persons are gathering around outdoor barbecue tions this weekend is con- tact a Rotarian or leave us a spaces in violation of the physical distancing health protocol In response to the Cov- May 2020, the Rotary Club of sistent with the ideals of Ro- message on Facebook. and sections of the emergency powers regulation. id-19 pandemic which has Grenada in partnership with tary and truly putting service Rotary Club of Grenada In some instances, persons can be seen drinking and so- forced businesses to close cialising in public without regard for their own safety be- temporarily, increased un- cause they are not wearing masks or any form of face cov- Efficiency employment, and reduced ering. household income; the Barbecue and other food vendors in public spaces are Rotary Club of Grenada therefore encouraged to offer takeaway services so as to stepped up its outreach avoid large gathering. The 2020 Emergency Powers (Cov- to low-income and vulner- id-19) section 9, subsection (a) clearly which states: no per- able persons by providing son shall host or attend any social activity of any descrip- them with food hampers tion. during the weekend of 22 It must also be noted that while the regulation provides May 2020. for the sale of alcohol beverages, the regulation does not “Our club is committed to permit for public consumption. providing support to needy The RGPF is, therefore, reminding persons that selling persons during this unprec- alcohol for consumption in public and failing to maintain edented difficult moment in physical distancing are in violation of the 2020 Covid-19 the history of Grenada. I was Regulations. Regulation 5, Sub-regulation 5 states that there pleased to see our mem- shall be no consumption of alcohol in any public place. bers filter into communities The general public is also reminded that customers to and reaching out to families business places must maintain physical distancing of no who can’t afford a nutritious less than 6 feet when conducting business. meal,” said Judy McCutch- A person who contravenes or fails to comply with these eon, President of the Rotary regulations, or any direction for the purposes of these Club of Grenada. She stated regulations, shall be guilty of an offence and, on summa- that “it has never been more ry conviction, liable to a fine not exceeding $1,000 and to important for us to rally to- imprisonment for a term not exceeding 12 months and to gether and be our brother’s forfeiture of any goods or money in respect of which the of- keeper.” fence has been committed. During the weekend of 22 Rotarian Kay Simon getting ready to deliver hampers Office of Commissioner of Police Personal Coverage Business Coverage 24-Hour Householders’ comprehensive Commercial property Roadside Assistance Private motor Contractors’ all risks All risks Liability App

Netherlands Building, Grand Anse Telephone: +1 (473) 444 3012 Online: www.netherlands.co.gd SUNDAY 4 NOWGRENADA Vol-01 • Edi-01 • 31 May 2020 Commentary Can we reduce A democracy our food import bill? to save BY NORRIS MITCHELL EDITORIAL

LINDA STRAKER

• EC$350 million food importation bill in 2019 • Local food producers and processors did not ben- efit from panic purchasing • With fewer imports, more money will be circulat- ing within the country • Farmers will be become the new upper middle class with sustainable income

In 2019, according to the Ministry of Trade, Grenada had a food importation bill of EC$350 million. Because of the Covid-19 pandemic, we might find ourselves hav- ing no choice but to change our taste because some of these foods may not be imminently available. Over the years we have heard ministers of Trade, Ag- riculture and Health speak about the need to consume more locally-grown food. The Ministry of Trade has even embarked on a “Made in Grenada” campaign so that we as consumers can focus on consuming more of our locally grown fresh agricultural produce and those that are preserved through the various small outlets in our agro-processing industry. There are no large scale agro-processing companies in the true sense of the word, but we do have agro- processers who produce just enough for satisfied cus- tomers. The thinking of many nowadays is the need to stabilise our food security. Should our Ministry for Agriculture in collaboration with the ministries of Trade and Health develop a long-term campaign aimed at re- Parliament chamber – picturesofgrenada.com ducing our food import bill in the next 10 years? Our government, as well as governments in the re- his article was intended to put such as The Public Service Commission, pensation. gion, took immediate action to lock down the countries the spotlight on the 30 odd years the Parliamentary Elections Office, the Grenada is a good example of MASSA to reduce and control the spread of Covid-19. Imme- of the NNP neocolonial govern- Police, the Judiciary and the Physical governance, a creolese expression for diately we heard that there would be a food shortage. T ance and its record of mismanage- Planning Unit (PPU) together with other black Caribbean neo-colonialism where The Prime Minister in the first national address after ment and underdevelopment of Gre- implementing ministries, for example, “power corrupts and absolute power, the State of Emergency, comforted citizens by inform- nada. Health, Education, Sanitation, Public corrupts absolutely”. This statement by ing them that there was no food shortage because he Listen to Michael Baptiste’s recent Works and Labour. In the case of Edu- one of Britain’s early parliamentarians had spoken to distributors and suppliers. exposé on WhatsApp on the Prime Min- cation and Labour, organisations called seems to fit exactly the current Grena- This food shortage was anticipated by the many who ister and Anthony Boatswain also on unions, manage their day to day opera- dian political experience: A Prime Min- enjoy imported food that is shown at times on televi- Pastor Stanford Simon and Emmalim tions in providing critical service to their ister for over 20 years and his govern- sion, making them feel that not having it, is missing out Pierre – when on the TV evening news members and the nation in protecting ment which has been in office for over on a special excitement in life. The fear of not having broadcast on Wednesday, 15 April 2020, their human rights which complements 30 years, could not be more applicable; that special something had many engaging in panic the Hon. Tobias Clement appeared as those of the state as buttresses of de- an egocentric mentality where “all man buying since January. Leader of The Opposition, having been mocracy, (echoes of the denied 25% for himself” in a region where we prefer Because our local food producers and processors sworn in by the Governor-General a few gratuity and pension). to sink individually instead of a UNITED cannot afford the same level of promotion - andad days earlier in accordance with the Gre- When all of these organisations are anglophone presence (much more than vertising, they did not benefit from the panic purchas- nada Constitution. working in harmony with each other, Caricom) to offset the vulnerability of ing and so a lot of what they produce are still on the In his opening remarks to the Grena- peace, stability and productivity are as- “smallness” on the global stage (a Mia shelves. We, therefore, believe that this pandemic pe- dian public, he made the historic pro- sured and the country prospers. Coro- Mottley approach). riod in which the term “new normal” is the latest trend, nouncement that he has “a democracy navirus apart, any conscientious Gre- Even before the arrival of the corona- consuming of locally produced food should become to save”. This profound statement, in nadian observer who is concerned with virus, the Ministry of Health, as the re- the new normal. my view, is a rallying call to all patriotic the state of (political) affairs in Grenada cord would show, is the most dysfunc- “When you buy Grenadian, you will build Grenada,” Grenadians to join in the rescue mission today, as experienced by the ordinary tional of government services: Chronic should become a slogan of our food security cam- of restoring our fractured democracy. Grenadian, would come to only one shortages of basic necessities exist, and paign. Locally produced food has fewer preservatives The following scenario is an attempt to conclusion: That what is being provided being hospitalised has become a death and scientifically preservatives have been proven to be provide the Opposition Leader with a as governance is woefully deficient with sentence. Now that we have to cope with the root cause of many ailments. With fewer imports, TEMPLATE of the enormous and chal- the mismanagement and the inequita- the virus, the unfolding events leave us more money will be circulating within the country and lenging task ahead, and that to remain ble distribution of our resources in the with uncertain hope for imminent re- with more money, farmers will be become the new up- focused is a sine qua non for success. 3rd decade of the 21st century. covery, but recovery will come through per middle class with a sustainable income. In most if not all democracies, govern- After considering from whence we our Grenadian resilience – God’s willing. Covid-19 brings many challenges, but it also brings ments are elected by the people in free came namely, the middle passage, Next in line, in my view, is the decay of many opportunities which we must see for us to make and fair elections to represent their in- slavery, indentureship, crown colony, our islandwide physical infrastructure – use of them. We should never miss an opportunity, to terests and to advocate on their behalf colonialism, statehood and “political” the Moliniere Public Road disaster crip- miss an opportunity. in a house of representatives (parlia- independence, the quality of which pling transportation on the western side In the USA, history has shown that during the worst ment), in achieving pertinent objectives needs serious reflection and ideologi- of the island, readily comes to mind, of times, many companies started in a kitchen or a for the wellbeing of a progressive State cal analysis, as compared with 5 or 6 with the rubber stamp approach by the basement and became international conglomerates in (country) as reflected in its policies and decades ago, when the self-governing Physical Planning Unit (PPU) of the Min- 10 to 20 years. programmes for people’s empower- people of the anglophone Caribbean istry of Finance of which Dr Mitchell is Time for us as a nation to put down a food security ment and advancement. In other words, seemed to have had a vision for a Carib- the Minister for Planning & Infrastruc- plan that will make agriculture be our gold mine in 10 they are the “honourable” servants of bean civilisation in the blossoming of a ture and the dubious and questionable to 20 years, because no public health pandemic could the people, not the other way around, West Indian Federation which was scut- manner in granting building approvals, stop the production of food. The ability to feed our- as now obtains. tled by Norman Manly of Jamaica and especially for large projects which al- selves should become our new mantra. Food security These policies and programmes find Eric Williams of Trinidad in 1962, and ways appear to be in conflict with the is all-encompassing and Covid-19 should be seen as concrete expression through independ- is now substituted by individual MASSA Building Laws of Grenada and conse- agriculture’s resurrection. ent democratic institutions of the state, governments, in a take it or leave it dis- quently with the eco-system and the SUNDAY NOWGRENADA Vol-01 • Edi-01 • 31 May 2020 5

environment. Silversands Hotel and the “proposed” 6 Senses Hotel in La Sagasse are salient examples. Let’s hope that the reactivated Natural and Cultural Herit- age Advisory Committee (NCHAC) of the Login to your online Physical Planning Unit would be allowed HOW TO EASILY PAY to keep its eyes open and its recommen- banking web portal dations heeded regarding another 3 pro- posed hotels (not factories) which the YOUR GRENLEC BILLS Egyptian “developer” intends to construct Navigate to the on Grenadian property bought from a so- called British developer for cheap without payments section a black penny going into the treasury. The failure by the Ministry of Legal Af- fairs and by extension the Government of Insert all relevant details Grenada to provide adequate and appro- priate building accommodation for the ONLINE judiciary as required by the constitution in dispensing JUSTICE, especially for the ordinary Grenadian and to the poor, the elderly and mentally challenged. This is an ongoing scenario over many decades which sad to say, does not appear to sig- 2/,9,$:$776 nal a satisfactory resolution in the near +23(32 2 67$1'5(: GD future. The hijacking of our independent Cycle Billing democratic institutions such as the Public 4 Service Commission and the Parliamen-  *BT* *00128193* tary Election process is (also) disturbing +23( and objectionable examples of MASSA  governance in a ONE PARTY visionless 3 1  government intent on monopolising po- 00000   Domestic litical power. Where is the “energised” but $FWXDO muted NDC in all of this?

Although not as apparent as in the 18-Mar-20 17-Apr-20   30 above cases, the neglect of our history  Metered $ $ 05-Jun-20 and cultural heritage, which are the un- $ derpinning of our identity and national $0.42329 $0.40570 17-Apr-20 30 18-Mar-20  persona is of major concern: The decay   $ Grenada Co-operative Bank $.00 1-Feb-20  CIBC FirstCaribbean   $. of our Public Library building with its in- $. -Jan-20  

EBP20200506_31338_1.TXT_0001__001658_[1/1] $5.CR   $0.00 19-Dec-19  $&5 valuable historic records, in an independ-   COVGOVT DISC -Nov-19  $.CR   ent and sovereign Grenada; York House, 2-Oct-19  $ Nickname   Billing Company 2-Sep-19  $.   Fort George, Government House, and the  Grenada Electricity Services$.4 disfigurement of the Market Square does $. Govt. Discount = $ Merchant Name CR Nickname (Optional) not appear to be part of the NNP devel- Grenlec Discount = $ 5. opment strategy if there is one; while GRENLEC Your bill shows a COVID-19CR relief discount above from Government and Grenlec on your electricity charges (non-fuel & fuel ONLY) for the bill the Ministry of Culture appears to have Billing Account Number LVVXHGLQ$SU Account Number transferred its function to the Ministry of issued in Apr. 1 1 Tourism, who is mainly concerned in sell- ing “PURE GRENADA,” through the Gre- Customer Name *00128193* Customer Name nada Tourism Authority and the selling 2 of Grenadian passports through the CBI Customer Name on the invoice Customer Number dysfunctional, some say corrupt, instru- 2 3 ments. Use this eld if the name on the invoice is not A few weeks ago, the Prime Minister the same as the customer name above. Meter Number gathered his ministers and permanent 4 secretaries to a confab, at which he be- moaned, what he described as the IMPLE- MENTATION DEFICIT. This deficit in the region of about 40% completion, reflects the low rate of production due to the lack Republic Bank Republic Bank of unutilised skilled (professional) labour formerly Scotiabank and commitment, and in some cases for the same reasons, the non-starter of pro- Name Account/Consumer Number Selected Payee jects – that are funded by grants or soft GRENADA ELECTRICITY SERVICES LTD. 1 GRENADAELECTRICITY loans as provided in the budget. Nickname Con rm Account/Consumer Number This national embarrassment is not Account Number 1 too difficult to explain – when the Prime 1 Account/Consumer Number refers to the account number Minister, not the Public Service Commis- Name on the Bill or consumer code related to a utility/other service that you subscribe to Access Code sion whose constitutional function is to 2 appoint public servants on merit to ap- This is your unique 5 to 8 digit number propriate positions, has been hijacked, Biller Category User ID that you created when setting up your online banking account. by putting square pegs in key positions Electricity (sycophants) in order to do his biddings, Address Transaction Password which very often are inimical to the na- Dusty Highway tional interest, resulting in raising the “incompetence index” in the man-power State provided, and is also reflected in the bid- St. George ding process for building contracts which is tilted in favour of NNP operatives. The above template which is not ex- haustive gives the Leader of the Opposi- tion an opportunity to contemplate his strategy and method of approach in neu- tralising or more importantly replacing an organisation which has not served the It is especially important to provide overall interest and advancement of the the correct account number to avoid people of Grenada, Carriacou and Petite Follow us on Martinique after so many years in office. delays in processing your bill payments www.grenlec.com Let us hope and pray that this is the be- ginning of a new process in the dispensa- tion of “a democracy to save.” Live Well Financially

www.antillean.biz (473) 440-2444

Automobile Commercial Marine

Life Health Group Coverage

Contractors Travel Home Owners SUNDAY NOWGRENADA 7 Op-ed Vol-01 • Edi-01 • 31 May 2020 Air Transport: Connecting the Caribbean BY TAHSEEN SAYED

iving in the time of Covid-19 frequent and are the portal for the you will be purchasing – including for the Caribbean Community (Cari- demic. When speed is essential, sup- has underscored how difficult rest of the world to experience the food – travels by air. This is not only com). In his final address for 2019, plies, equipment and personnel are Lit is to maintain our distance. Caribbean. Nearly 9.1 million tour- true for imports but exports as well. Caricom’s Secretary General, Am- rapidly flown in to provide support Many of us are longing for a time ists visited the Caribbean in 2019, Recently, the World Bank worked bassador Irwin Larocque, said that where it is most needed. when we can feel comfortable to and a large number of those pass with the Governments of Dominica, an increase in air travel can boost Notwithstanding risks, airports reconnect with our family and through airports. No doubt, those Grenada and Saint Lucia to develop growth and employment. Air travel are the gateway to opportunities. friends and restart regular eco- numbers will be different for 2020 a series of projects to improve their can play an important role in stimu- Airports can become a catalyst to nomic activity. with border closures and the halt in airports and air transport sectors. lating economic activity throughout regenerate economic activity as the Here in the Caribbean, with con- tourism. However, while the borders US$75 million will be used to im- the region and in supporting con- small island states begin to reopen. nections and relations spread are closed now, it is an opportune prove safety and resilience of the tinued regional integration and co- Improvements in the air transporta- across the region, intra-island travel time to prepare for when we are air transport sector in these coun- operation.Countries in the Eastern tion sector will help meet the future is frequent. Travel serves to deepen travelling again. In addition to pas- tries, and another $84 million pro- Caribbean are at high risk from nat- flow of travellers, whether visiting relationships, enhance trade, and senger travel, air transport is also ject was also approved for Haiti. ural disasters. The new projects will family, coming for business, or to leads to a deeper regional connec- essential for facilitating trade for is- Airport improvements will directly provide critical infrastructure and enjoy the sun, sea and sand of the tion. Whether it’s travelling to carni- land nations. The volume of freight provide more safety and comfort to equipment to support increased re- Caribbean. Looking ahead, the Car- vals or to watch a cricket match or attributed to air transport in the travellers. The new projects will help silience of the airports and the air ibbean is preparing to welcome exploring business opportunities on Caribbean small states increased these airports comply with interna- transport sector. As we are learning, these travellers. another island, air travel brings the over 50% between 2016 and 2018. tional safety standards and will im- air travel is also vulnerable not only Tahseen Sayed is the World Bank Caribbean people together. While you may not see cargo mov- prove connectivity in the Caribbean. to climate-related disasters but also Country Director for Caribbean coun- Airports make such travel fast and ing through airports, some of what Connecting the region is a priority to other crises, like the current pan- tries.

The World Bank’s Board of Execu- crease operational safety, improve tive Directors approved a series navigation, and enhance the resil- of Caribbean Regional Air Trans- ience of infrastructure to natural port Connectivity Projects in four World Bank provides disasters to ensure continuity of countries for a total of US$159 essential supply chains and health million, to enhance regional con- emergency services. Infrastructure nectivity by improving the safety investments include rehabilitation of air transport and the resil- of the runway in Cap Haitien, con- ience of the airport infrastruc- US$17 million for struction of a taxiway in Port au ture to natural disasters. Prince, installation of modern air These projects include Interna- traffic monitoring and control sys- tional Development Association tems, and improvements to airfield (IDA) financing of US$13 million for regional air transport drainage aimed at reducing the risk Dominica, US$17 million for Gre- of flooding. Technical assistance in- nada, US$84 million for Haiti, and cludes skills training and measures US$45 million for Saint Lucia. These to support women’s employment in countries are reliant on the air connectivity for the air transport sector. transport sector and face common connectivity issues. The projects Saint Lucia will enable countries to better ac- commodate diverted flights, emer- The project for Saint Lucia aims gency landings, and post-disaster Grenada to improve operational safety and relief flights, and improve regional MEDIA RELEASE navigation and enhance the resil- capacity and collaboration in the ience of airport infrastructure to sector. natural disasters. This will include World Bank Provides US$159 improvements to the runway of the Million for Regional Air Transport Hewanorra International Airport Connectivity in Dominica, Grenada, and support critical improvements of agencies handling air transpor- make climate resilience improve- and its associated facilities, such as Haiti, and Saint Lucia in safety, resilience, and regula- tation operations and airport in- ments, and strengthen the coun- runway-end safety areas, airfield “This series of three projects tory oversight,” said Anabela Abreu, vestment planning. Navigation and try’s capacity in civil aviation and drainage, and crash and fire rescue aims to increase the safety and the World Bank Country Director for safety equipment will be improved, airport management. This includes facilities. Activities will also include overall resilience of key connection Haiti. “The project is important to enabling emergency landing in case installation of air navigation and installation of modernized air navi- points in the Eastern Caribbean,” COVID-19 recovery efforts, as Hai- of natural disasters and increasing safety equipment at the main inter- gation systems, and institutional said Tahseen Sayed, World Bank ti’s economy will benefit from - en capacity in air traffic control, -wild national airport, construction of a strengthening in air traffic control Country Director for the Caribbean. hanced connectivity and resilience.” life management, airport manage- runway end safety area and a resil- and management. “The World Bank’s first financing of ment and planning. ient air cargo facility, and prepara- Financing for these projects airport projects in the Caribbean Dominica tion of an aviation sector strategic comes from IDA. Haiti will receive will also facilitate connectivity and Grenada plan. a grant, and the three Eastern Car- support countries during the COV- In Dominica, the project aims to ibbean islands will receive conces- ID-19 recovery phase.” improve safety and airport resil- The Grenada project will support Haiti sional financing with a maturity of “In Haiti, the project will mod- ience readiness to natural disas- increased safety and efficiency of 40 years, including a grace period ernize air transport infrastructure ters, and to strengthen the capacity airport operations and navigation, In Haiti, the project aims to in- of ten years. SUNDAY 8 NOWGRENADA Vol-01 • Edi-01 • 31 May 2020 Education

BY CURLAN CAMPBELL

• Phased approach takes into Reopening of schools: consideration health and safe- ty of all concerned • Principals and school admin- istrators return on 1 June to ensure school environment is ready to accommodate Form 5 Phased approach students only • Special arrangement for CXC exams starting 13 July Stemming from the first emergency virtual meeting of the Council for to accommodate Human and Social Development (COHSOD), the Ministry of Education announced a phased approach for reopening schools to allow students to sit the Caribbean Examination Council (CXC) examinations. CXC exams This approach takes into con- sideration the health and safety of all concerned especially the na- tion’s children despite the ongoing threat of the spread of Covid-19. The first phase, according to Minister of Education, Emmalin Pierre, will see the return of prin- cipals and school administrators on 1 June 2020, to ensure that the school environment is ready to ac- commodate Form 5 students only. Phase 2 will see the return of stu- dents in CXC examination classes only, and teachers to onsite classes from 9 am to 2:30 pm. Phase 3 be- gins 15 June, when all teachers are expected back into the classroom and Phase 4 includes 2 weeks of personal development activity with teachers facilitated remotely by the ministry. Phases 5 and 6 will see teachers taking a vacation starting from 20 July to 31 August, when they are expected to report to work to commence a week of planning for the new school year. The ministry also outlined a special arrangement for CXC exams start- ing 13 July. Based on the presentation made by CXC Registrar, Dr Wayne Wesley, the Cabinet of Grenada together with other key stakeholders includ- ing members of the Grenada Union of Teachers, principals, members of various school boards and par- ents, has analysed its unique situa- tion and decided that some exams deemed important will start, while others not deemed important will Ministry of Education, Ministerial Complex, Botanical Gardens, Tanteen, St George be deferred. Minister Pierre, during a press nation to commence in July 2020, the admittance of CSEC students measures for the phased reopen- signs of Covid-19. Teachers are re- briefing with Permanent Secretary, Minister Pierre said some persons into the TA Marryshow Commu- ing of schools. The ministry has quired to ensure that students are Kevin Andall, and Chief Education were of the view that the CSEC ex- nity College (TAMCC). Finlay said developed protocols outlining spe- reminded to adhere to the social Officer, Angella Finlay, updated the ams should be deferred to 2021. the college has already begun the cific responsibilities for principals, distancing protocol and to keep a media on the new format for sit- She explained the rationale behind application process for students teachers and parents that places a daily class register to ensure con- ting of exams and protocols to be Cabinet’s decision. desirous of entering the college. priority on health and safety. tact tracing. It will be the responsi- followed. “If the Ministry of Education “Once the results are out, TAMCC Finlay said the greatest challenge bility of parents to ensure that their One major announcement was takes a decision to defer the ex- will then utilise those, so the com- to ensure that students adhere to children are sent to school wearing that Grade 6 students will not sit ams to 2021, the accommodation mitment by CXC is that the results the social distancing protocols will masks and to provide them with the Caribbean Primary Exit Assess- of students for classes will be a for CSEC will be out sometime in occur during their break and lunch- hand sanitisers. ment (CPEA) this year, but will be challenge for all schools, limited September so it does indicate a time. “During the break time, we The arrival and departure times allowed to advance to secondary space and the demand it will place late start for students who may recommend open space for eating of students will be 30 minutes level based on a composite score on their teachers are among issues want to enter, but TAMCC is also because the mask must come off… apart to avoid gathering. Parents for each student to be derived of greatest concern. However, de- committed to having them get pro- and at that time, the distance will are advised to pre-pack lunches for from the combination of their in- ferred arrangement for students visional entry based on the scores go up to 12 feet. So we are encour- their children and principals are ternal CPEA assessment scores with underlying conditions or spe- that are already available for those aging outside eating with packaged tasked to determine whether or from CXC, Grade 5 minimum com- cial circumstances must be consid- students.” meals, nothing in plates and plat- not a tuckshop can operate. “Hav- petency test score. and Grade 4 ered,” she said. The minister said there will be ters,” she said. ing to line up for lunches with dis- minimum competency test score The minister was unable to say an alternative to replace Regard- Principals hold health and safety tancing will mean a longer time be- 2018 /19. Another major decision whether schools can be fully open ing the National School Leaving briefings with their staff, provide fore every child can be refreshed will see the Caribbean Certificate to accommodate all students for Examination, and that an official teachers and students with safety and we do not want to keep them of Secondary Level Competence the new school year in September, announcement will be made to information, notify the ministry on the school compound for any (CCSLC) for Form 3 students be de- and could not commit to a timeline explain the rationale behind the of asthmatic students, develop a longer than necessary,” Finlay said. ferred to 2021 despite it being con- for the placement of CPEA stu- move. timetable for departure and ar- Parents are also asked to inform sidered an important benchmark dents who would be making their Students are to adhere to 6 foot rival of students to reduce crowd- the principal of preexisting condi- examination. While Cabinet has transition into secondary schools. distancing in the classroom and 12 ing and ensure a designated room tions that may prevent students approved for the CXC CSEC exami- A late start is also predicted for foot distancing at recess, as part of to accommodate anyone showing from returning to school. SUNDAY NOWGRENADA 9 Politics Vol-01 • Edi-01 • 31 May 2020 New senators receive Instruments of Appointment

BY LINDA STRAKER of Glynis Roberts, Kerryne James and Ron Redhead. They were appointed by the • Terry Noel and Tessa St Governor-General in the af- Cyr are new senators termath of the 2018 General • New senators’ appoint- Election when the ruling New ment revoke appoint- National Party won all the ment of Glynis Roberts, seats in the House of Repre- Kerryne James and Ron sentatives leaving the post Redhead of Leader of the Opposition Two new senators will be tak- vacant. ing the Oath of Allegiance or James who is a student Affirmation of Office- when and was recommended by ever the Upper House of Par- the main opposition National liament meets in the future. Democratic Congress (NDC) The new senators are 2 of 3 became Grenada’s youngest who will represent recently ever appointed senator. appointed Leader of the Op- In December 2019, Clem- position, Tobias Clement. ent after having unresolved As the Leader of the Op- issues with the leadership of position, Clement has the the NNP, resigned as a mem- honour of recommending 3 ber of the party but decided senators to the 13-member to continue serving in his role Senate, but only 2 were pre- as the member of parliament sented with instruments of for St George’s North East appointment because the constituency. third is overseas, and is wait- In March 2020 he wrote ing for external borders to to the Governor-General ad- reopen. vising her of his decision to The new senators who cross the parliamentary floor received instruments of ap- and to fill the vacant post of pointment on Wednesday Opposition Leader. In that from Governor-General, capacity, Clement will fulfil Dame Cecile La Grenade New senators with Opposition Leader Tobias Clement (centre) many ceremonial parliamen- are Terry Noel and Tessa St tary roles as well as be the Cyr. The short ceremony wit- ducted in accordance with and saw the new parliamen- ments wearing face masks. new senators automatically chairman of the Public Ac- nessed by Clement, was con- physical distancing protocols tarians receiving their instru- The appointment of the revoked the appointment counts Committee.

NDC calls on government to show compassion

MEDIA RELEASE Melville Street Bus Terminus, St George’s

The stand-off between the bus ful time. ers, drivers and conductors have tion to this problem which will not the bus owners from implementing associations and government We are disappointed that discus- also suffered significant financial require bus owners to place any the proposed increase, while at the should not be allowed to escalate sions between government and rep- losses during the lockdown. They burden on the people by increasing same time, making no effort to help further. resentatives of the bus associations too must be given appropriate relief. fares. Reduce the $5.50 per gallon ease the burden by reducing the Further delay in the resumption on the reopening of public transport It is unconscionable for the govern- petrol tax on gasoline at the pumps exorbitant petrol tax. Gas price in of public transportation will result services failed to reach an agree- ment to put bus owners in a position to $4. That way, you put not just 50 Grenada is one of the highest in the in more hardship on people who ment, after having ample time to where they are forced increase fares cents into the pockets of bus own- region. Added to that, the bus own- depend on public transportation as sort out all these matters. and then turn around and object to ers, but a whole $1.50 into the pock- ers are correct in saying that imple- their main way of going about their The government must appreciate the increase, all in an effort pretend ets of bus owners and everyone with menting the safety protocols will be daily lives. The government should that like all Grenadians who have that they care about the people. a vehicle. an additional cost to them consider this and show compassion, families to maintain and financial The NDC says that there is a very It is totally unreasonable and un- Show compassion and caring, especially during this already stress- commitments to meet, the bus own- simple and straightforward solu- caring, for the government to block don’t just talk about it. SUNDAY 10 NOWGRENADA Vol-01 • Edi-01 • 31 May 2020 News Recent deportee has no family in Grenada He was born here, so that makes him a Grenadian

BY LINDA STRAKER firmed that one of the two depor- to accept the young man who is they have already served time in violate the law of the US will face tees who returned to the island in his 30s. He was born here, so jail and were returned here be- sanctions. last Thursday, May 2020 from the that makes him a Grenadian,” he cause of US laws after serving time The order said that visa sanction • One deportee is Grenadian by USA does not have family on is- admitted. in prison for offences,” Joseph said. will be imposed if “the government birth, with parents who are land, though he is a born Grena- Both deportees were placed in It is understood that the young of a foreign country denies or un- from other OECS territories dian. 14 days quarantine upon arrival as man will be residing with a family reasonably delays the acceptance • Both deportees were placed in “Our research has shown that he part of the new health protocol for friend until flights are available to of aliens who are citizens, subjects, 14 days quarantine upon ar- is a Grenadian by birth, so we have all repatriated citizens. The other the territory in which his parents nationals, or residents of that rival to accept him as a Grenadian. His person who is in his 60s, is con- reside. country after being asked to ac- • After quarantine, both depor- parents who are from other OECS firmed to be a Grenadian by birth The deportation of the 2 came cept those aliens, and if such deni- tees will be release into soci- territories were in Grenada at the and has family members on island. almost 8 weeks after al or delay is impeding operations ety because they have already time of his birth and shortly after, He served 17 years in jail for rape. President, Donald Trump, signed of the Department of Homeland served time in jail returned with him,” said Leroy Jo- “After the 14 days quarantine, an executive order mandating that Security necessary to respond to seph, Head of Immigration. “Gre- we will have no choice but to re- any country which delays or de- the ongoing pandemic caused by Immigration authorities have con- nada was left with no choice but lease them into society because nies acceptance of its citizens who SARS-CoV-2. Almost 200,000 pounds of tobacco products imported in 2019 BY LINDA STRAKER it was pointed out that Gre- nada do not have that level of breakdown because of the • 87,959 kilograms of ciga- way the data on death is cur- rettes and or cigarette rently processed. “But if you products imported for were to trace back, there is 2019 clear scientific evidence that • Clear scientific evidence tobacco use leads to cancer that tobacco use leads and cancer is the leading to cancer and cancer is cause of death in Grenada, leading cause of death in so I believe there are to- Grenada bacco related deaths among • New WHO kit to alert our cancer deaths,” said Dr school students to tobac- Shawn Charles, the current co industry’s tactics to epidemiologist at the Minis- hook them to addictive try of Health. products The World Health Organi- sation (WHO) last Friday According to data from the launched a new kit for school Central Statistic Department, students aged 13-17 to alert Grenada imported 87,959 kil- them to the tobacco indus- ograms (193,916.4) pounds try’s tactics to hook them to of cigarettes and or ciga- addictive products. “Every rette products for 2019. The year, the tobacco industry value of the importation was invests more than US$9 bil- EC$4,459,265. lion to advertise its products. “I am certain that a sig- Increasingly, it is targeting nificant [quantity] of the young people with nicotine imported tobacco product and tobacco products in a bid is resold to visitors, but we to replace the 8 million peo- do have persons, especially ple that its products kill every young people using these year,” said a statement from products. The World Health the WHO. Organisation has issued a For 2020, the WHO’s ‘World lot of research on how to- No Tobacco Day’ campaign bacco product companies focuses on protecting chil- are continuously targeting dren and young people from young people. So I am very exploitation by the tobacco concerned,” said one of Gre- and related industries. nada’s health professionals. Smoking suffocates the The importation has not lungs and other organs, starv- declined over the years and ing them of the oxygen they though it is believed that need to develop and function most of the imported prod- properly. “Educating youth is ucts is sold to vital because nearly 9 out of visitors, health officials are 10 smokers start before age Not doubting the data, the companies. “Can you imagine According to the data, the 2,848 kilograms to Grenada. concerned that despite the 18. We want to provide young health professional who pre- the amount that came into largest importation was from The data also shows that to- messages about the dangers people with the knowledge to fers to remain anonymous, the island under the label of Trinidad and Tobago which bacco products were import- of smoking tobacco products, speak out against tobacco said that data would only re- personal use? I am talking exported 84,560 kilograms, ed from as far as China. persons, especially the youth industry manipulation,” said flect what was imported by about the 1 and 2 packs in followed by Switzerland in When data about tobacco population, continue to use Ruediger Krech, WHO Direc- the importing/distribution bags and suitcases,” he said. second place which exported related deaths were sought, it. tor for Health Promotion. SUNDAY NOWGRENADA 11 Travel Vol-01 • Edi-01 • 31 May 2020 3 June repatriation Charter flights may flight from Grenada to UK closed operate before full opening of airport BY LINDA STRAKER or a hotel is having a charter service to The Prime Minister said that govern- bring someone specifically to the hotel ment has identified 30 June 2020 as the and they have the protocol already in possible date for reopening the coun- • 30 June 2020 as the possible date place and the system in place for test- try’s borders. That will be a little more for re-opening the country’s bor- ing people when they come in, then than 2 months since the decision was ders they could come in, in June, that will be taken to lock down the country as part • Hotels or groups can use a char- okay,” he said while speaking on Pow- of the strategy to reduce the spread of tered option to land persons prior erFM. Covid-19. Grenada’s first imported case to 30 June “If you’re coming with a commercial was announced in mid-March. That While Grenada puts the necessary airline that is picking up passengers for person was someone from the United health protocols in place for the open- any hotel in the country and having to Kingdom. Grenada presently has 23 ing of external borders in late June, go to any part of Grenada, Carriacou positive laboratory-confirmed cases. Prime Minister, Dr , has and Petite Martinique, then clearly A news release issued on Friday by recommended that hotels or groups there is some additional work that the Government Information Service can use a charter flight option to land must be done for the border to open,” (GIS) said that the National Covid-19 persons at the Interna- he said. Committee and the Tourism Sub-Com- BY LINDA STRAKER tional Airport (MBIA). He also explained that there are a mittee of the Task Force for Rebuilding “Charter flights will pose less of a chal- number of protocols that have to be the Grenadian Economy are currently lenge than commercial flights and may, agreed upon and instituted before the working with stakeholders in the tour- • US nationals encouraged to enrol in Smart Traveller En- therefore, be accommodated before borders can reopen. “We are working ism industry in preparation for the reo- rollment Programme (STEP) the end of June, once all other recom- collaboratively with stakeholders to pening. • UK Government special flights from 3 June has now mended protocols and testing systems determine what conditions must be in During appearances on various me- closed booking are in place,” he told various media per- place before we allow persons to enter dia platforms this week, Dr Mitchell • Travel advice will be updated on future special flights sonnel as he engaged in live interviews the country. One such condition is en- said 30 June is being considered as a and other options to leave Grenada via web conferencing from his office on suring that all hotels have appropriate practical option, but the actual date The US is advising its nationals who are stuck in foreign Thursday, 28 May 2020. sanitisation and other systems in place. will depend on all the necessary proto- lands like Grenada and cannot get back home, to enrol in its He explained that the charter option We cannot open the borders if only one cols being in place. The Prime Minister Smart Traveller Enrollment Programme (STEP). The UK gov- can be used by hotels and by Grenadi- or two hotels are ready. There must be repeatedly stated that while economic ernment advises its nationals who are in the same condition ans who are stuck in foreign lands and uniformity of practices as we continue activity must resume, public health and and who have run short on money to apply for an emergency need to return before the formal open- to safeguard public health and safety,” safety are also of paramount impor- loan. ing of the lone airport. “Now if someone he said. tance. Using their Facebook pages to inform nationals in the OECS and Barbados about the initiatives, both embassies located in Barbados, used the same medium to advise about repatria- tion flights. These flights have returned hundreds of nationals at differ- ent times. Most regional territories declared a state of emer- gency that came with curfew and lockdown of the countries, No LIAT service as a means of reducing the spread of Covid-19. The STEP is a free service to allow US citizens and nationals travelling and living abroad to enrol with the nearest US Em- bassy or Consulate. According to information on the website, this will allow registered nationals to receive important infor- before 30 June 2020 mation from the embassy about safety conditions in each des- BY LINDA STRAKER tination country as well as help nationals make informed deci- sions about travel plans. “Help the US Embassy contact you in an emergency, whether natural disaster, civil unrest, or family • Most of LIAT’s network remain emergency. Help family and friends get in touch with you in an closed to commercial passenger emergency,” the website for STEP advised. traffic. The UK government in mid-May announced repatriation • LIAT’s commercial passenger ser- flights in the first week of June for nationals in Grenada, but it vices will remain suspended until closed within a short period after the announcement. “Book- 30 June ing for UK government special flights from 3 June has now • Airline has maintained strict pro- closed. There are currently no further special flights organised tocols for aircraft cleaning and from Grenada. This travel advice will be updated with further sanitisation information on any future special flights and other options to Grenada and other territories within leave Grenada as soon as this is available,” said the Grenada Caricom which use LIAT’s services will work and will resume flights when it is Prime Minister, Dr Keith Mitchell, dis- information link on www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/grena- not have LIAT connecting the islands safe to do so for passengers. closed during several media interviews da/staying-during-coronavirus. if they reopen airports for commercial “Passengers booked during the ex- last week that Grenada is targeting 30 Encouraging its nationals to sign up for travel advice email passenger flights before 30 June 2020. tended period of suspension will auto- June as the date to reopen its inter- alerts and to follow the British High Commission in , LIAT’s commercial passenger servic- matically have their bookings cancelled national airport for commercial pas- Barbados on Facebook and Twitter, the High Commission of- es will remain suspended until 30 June, and will receive full airline credit for senger traffic. “There are a number of fice also advised about available financial support. “There is due to the continued impact of the future travel. Passengers will be able protocols that have to be agreed upon a range of financial support from the government that you Covid-19 pandemic. Chief Executive to rebook as soon as the airline an- and instituted before the borders can can access while you are unable to return due to coronavi- Officer, Julie Reifer-Jones, reported that nounces the resumption of passenger reopen. We are working collaboratively rus restrictions. If you’re in Grenada and have exhausted all most of LIAT’s network remain closed services,” the release promised. with stakeholders to determine what other options to cover essential living costs while you wait to to commercial passenger traffic. Reifer-Jones reassured the public conditions must be in place before we return home, you could apply for an emergency loan for your “While some territories have an- that the airline was continuing its plan- allow persons to enter the country,” he living costs from the UK government. You can only apply if you nounced a reopening date, there are ning for the resumption of operations. said. normally live in the UK and you cannot return home. This last- still many protocols to be implement- She noted however, that there was still Other territories within the OECS resort option is for those most in need, and you would need ed, such as testing and mandatory a great deal of uncertainty about the have already announced dates in early to repay the loan when you are back in the UK.” quarantine periods, which will allow date of reopening of most borders. June for reopening of external border With regards to other foreign nationals, the Grenada Min- for the safe movement of passengers,” The airline has maintained strict proto- and airports. Tourism with its many istry of Foreign Affairs recommends these nationals visit htt- said a release from LIAT. Reifer-Jones cols for aircraft cleaning and sanitisa- added products is the biggest provider ps://www.gov.gd/mofa/ or call the Ministry of Foreign Affairs noted that the airline is closely moni- tion to ensure the health and safety of of employment for persons in the Car- to know the name of the diplomatic representative person on toring the situation across the LIAT net- its passengers and staff. ibbean. the island. SUNDAY 12 NOWGRENADA Vol-01 • Edi-01 • 31 May 2020 Press Release St George’s University reaffirms commitment to Grenada MEDIA RELEASE

Assuming a safe return is possible, St George’s University reaffirms pus this Fall. Assuming a safe return “While we are eager to return our stu- Grenada. SGU will provide commitment to Grenada by an- is possible, SGU will provide some dents to campus as soon as possible, Dr Charles Modica, Chancellor of St nouncing start dates for distance students with the choice of attending we want to reduce any risks of infec- George’s University, stated, “We look some students learning in Fall term and working classes on campus. Students attend- tion. We believe providing the option forward to welcoming our students with the choice of towards safe re-entry to campus. ing virtually may remain online for of online courses this August, will back to campus from all the schools attending classes on St George’s University (SGU) an- the entire term, through December allow us to prepare thoroughly for as soon as we are able to do so. The nounced that it will provide students 2020. The university plans to deter- an eventual full return of our com- university remains committed to the campus. Students with the option to attend the August mine by early July whether the appro- munity to Grenada. The need for new country and people of Grenada in attending virtually 2020 term via online distance learn- priate conditions are in place to facili- physicians has never been greater, this long-term partnership, and we ing. tate on-campus academic activities as this unprecedented public health look forward to returning as an active may remain online This allows students enrolled for in the August term. Students will be crisis shows. At St George’s, we’re and vital member of the community.” for the entire term, the August term to participate in surveyed in early June to determine proud to be the top provider of new The university’s leadership remain through December SGU’s virtual education programme interest in returning to campus for doctors to the US healthcare system. humbled by the remarks made by the launched in March due to the global August, should conditions permit. This August, we look forward to em- Prime Minister, Dr The Right Honor- 2020. pandemic. The virtual programme If it is determined that some stu- powering our newest class of aspiring able Keith Mitchell, recognising the offers students small group study, dents may return to campus, that physicians to pursue their dreams of collaboration with SGU during his last personalised academic support and return will occur after 1 August. Any practicing medicine whether that be address to the nation. Grenada and interactive online courses, such as return to campus will include appro- through online learning or on the other Caribbean countries have been attending live-streamed lectures as priate physical distancing measures True Blue campus.” applauded for their decisive response they would on campus. in classrooms, labs, dormitories, and SGU is represented on the govern- to the pandemic, which should help With the planned re-opening of other common areas, as well as other ment’s Task Force for Rebuilding the expedite the eventual return of stu- Grenada’s borders in the next 2 best practices for limiting the risk for Grenadian Economy committee for dents. SGU remains committed to months, SGU is collaborating closely spread of the disease, including test- re-opening Grenada and all final de- helping the Grenadian community with the Government of Grenada to ing for Covid-19. cisions on onsite operations will com- navigate the challenges of this global establish the conditions that will per- Dr Richard Liebowitz, Vice Chancel- ply with the health and safety proto- health crisis and the return to eco- mit students to safely return to cam- lor of St George’s University, stated, cols outlined by the Government of nomic stability.

Advertise with us: nowgrenada.com/advertise NOW Grenada is published online by Aqua Design Inc., Paddock Road, St George, Grenada Telephone 1 (473) 444-2869 • E-mail: [email protected]