“inside the beautiful twin isle parish”

The Workings of the

Volume 1, Issue 3 April – June 2009

MINISTRY OF CARRIACOU &

PETITE MARTINIQUE AFFAIRS

NEWSLETTER

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

The Minister of Youth Empowerment, Sports & Culture

made the comment in an address at the official launch in

Carriacou of the Grenada Youth Upliftment Programme.

More than 100 participants, including 21 from Petite

Martinique, attended the successful launch of the

programme on Wednesday, March 25, at the Resource

Centre.

Mr. Simmons said that despite challenges, the

Government of Prime Minister Tillman Thomas

plans to forge ahead with enhancing the living

conditions of all citizens. He also implored on the

young people to maximize the opportunities they are

being given with initiatives such as the Youth

Upliftment Programme.

Other speakers at the event included local

evangelist, Pastor Junior McNeil, and Anderson

Matheson, Personal Assistant to the Minister of

Carriacou and Petite Martinique Affairs.

Pastor McNeil told the programme participants that

God is important in their journey to empowerment

and self-improvement. He urged them to take the

training opportunity seriously, set themselves goals

and be humble.

The Personal Assistant advised the participants that

they should grasp the chance at training, which takes

into account the varied interests of young people.

The Grenada Youth Upliftment Programme, which has

four components, offers skills training in areas such as

agriculture, cosmetology, building technology and

hospitality arts.

Successful Launch of

GYUP PROGRAMME IN CARRIACOU

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Grenada's Prime Minister, Tillman difficulties can be blamed on the In the case of Petite Martinique, Thomas and members of his Cabinet international economic downturn, it where Prime Minister Thomas was staged successful meetings in was also the result of “reckless accompanied by his Cabinet Carriacou on Thursday and Petite spending” by the previous colleague, Minister for Carriacou Martinique on Friday. The meetings Government, which spent EC $37M and Petite Martinique Affairs, addressed several issues of concern in the 60 days prior to the July 8th Senator George Prime, much to the islands and the State of 2008 general elections and left a emphasis was placed on the Grenada, including the recently Treasury with EC $53M in unpaid development of fish processing. announced stimulus package. claims. One businessman present at the

meeting, who has already started processing salted fish on the island, At the Carriacou meeting, Prime presented the Prime Minister with a Minister Thomas, who was sample of his products, including a accompanied by eight members of small parcel of flour also made in his cabinet, told residents that while Petite Martinique. The Prime Grenada was going through a Minister welcomed the presentation difficult period, the recovery saying “its speaks exactly to what process will be hastened “if we work o u r G o v e r n m e n t h a s b e e n t o g e th e r an d i n c r ea s e o u r promoting.”production.”

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

people of Petite Martinique have a “Brothers and sisters, we have come “This is why we moved the unpaid wonderful opportunity to provide us out of disasters and difficult claims or domestic debt we found in with products that are manufactured circumstances before and we will do the Treasury from the EC $53M to right here,” he told the more that 100 it again. It is in these difficult times EC $12M.We have to ensure that people gathered at the RC School in that we should rally together and these businesses which employee a Petite Martinique.work in unity to ensure that when number if people do not go out of the recovery comes we can all enjoy business and plunge the country into Another issue that came up for the benefits,” the Prime Minister further difficulty,” the Finance discussion was sand mining on told the meeting in Carriacou, which Minister said. Petite Martinique. The Minister of was made up of more than 200

Carriacou and Petite Martinique, people from the island.

He said among the projects that the Senator the Honourable George Government is looking into for Prime committed to discussing with

He noted that while the poor state of Carriacou was an airport facility a committee set up to look into the Grenada 's economy and the current that provided night landing issue, to come up with a solution.

facilities and can accommodate larger aircrafts and more flights into The Prime Minister, who made the the island. He said this was a trip to Carriacou and Petite prerequisite for the development of Martinique by the Osprey Lines, tourism and attracting a large hotel took the opportunity to tour the to Carriacou. Both meetings school, the police station and the focused on plans for the agriculture medical center to see first hand the and tourism prospects of the islands. state of the facilities.

“

PRIME MINISTER HOLDS TOWNHALL MEETINGS IN CARRIACOU AND PETITE MARTINIQUE

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As Government takes steps to improve its service delivery change. She listed them as effective performance appraisal to Grenadians, public officers in Carriacou and Petite & corporate planning, development of a reporting and Martinique were briefed on the Grenada Public Sector accountability framework, clarification of the senior Modernization Change Management Programme. managers board and the realignment of the structure of the

public service and the services it deliver.A five member delegation, led by Cabinet Secretary Elizabeth Henry-Greenidge held meetings in Carriacou Ms. Jessamy said it is important for a public officer to and Petite Martinique. understand and demonstrate commitment to Grenada. She

said public sector employees must move from emotion One of the main presenters, Policy Development Officer in based service and to value based service and enhance the Prime Minister's Ministry, Merina Jessamy, individual and departmental performance through training.highlighted the strategies that, if implemented, will help to transform the public service. Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Carriacou & Petite

Martinique Affairs, Bernadette Lendore-Sylvester was She said that cabinet has approved four priorities for also present at the meeting.

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

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

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

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

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

PUBLIC OFFICERS IN CARRIACOU & PETITE MARTINIQUE BRIEFED ON PUBLIC SECTOR MODERNIZATION PROGRAMME

A SUCCESSFUL SITTING OF THE THIRD YOUTH PARLIAMENT

IFL ESY TH YTL LA EEH

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

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

Ms. Bartholomew, who has outlived her only child, celebrated her birthday in style on March

th25 , surrounded by her adoring and loving grandchildren.

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

Minister for Carriacou and Petite Martinique Affairs, Senator the Hon. George Prime, along

with Social Worker Susan Peters, shared in the momentous occasion.

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

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

CARRIACOU CELEBRATES ANOTHER CENTURIAN

Illiteracy is no longer a major issue for the schools of Carriacou & Petite Martinique, thanks to the work of Literacy Specialists Elizabeth Nonweiler and Jackie Day of England. The two have completed a three year period of training teachers on the island, in the use of synthetic phonics.

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

Minister for Carriacou & Petite Martinique Affairs, Sen. Hon. George Prime who had the opportunity to hear four year old students of the Windward Pre-primary School read, commended the specialists for their efforts.

“We believe this programme has changed the lives of some of our students because we now live in a world where communication is critical for our development and our advancement. In fact the world will be a more interesting place when people can communicate effectively,” he said.

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

The problem of illiteracy in secondary schools became chronic during the implementation of universal education in the 1990s. Students were promoted from the primary school system without meeting the required competence in literacy.

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

The L'Esterre R.C. School and Harvey Vale Her teacher, Lyandra Stiell said she was not Government School in Carriacou are in surprised at her performance since she has celebratory mood after two of their students always been a focused student. placed in the first 60 in this year's Common Entrance Exams. Leron Gabr ie l f rom Harvey Va le

Government placed 52nd with an average of Topping the performance for Carriacou was 123.40.L'Esterre R.C. student, Joann Lambert who placed 16th in the State with an average of A total of one hundred and twelve students 127.03. Lambert attributed her performance to from Carriacou & Petite Martinique sat this the support of her parents, teachers and God. year's Exams.

Education Departmentsaid Thanks to Literacy TrainersEducation Departmentsaid Thanks to Literacy Trainers

Joann Lambert & Leron Gabriel Performs well at 2008 Common Entrance Exams

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Conference in the Freeport, Bahamas. His Minister for Carriacou & Petite Martinique attendance at the Conference, hosted by the Affairs, Senator the Hon. George Prime said Government of the Bahamas, was critical. that these machines will make the The four day conference looked at a broad department more self reliant and ready to range of issues including identifying deal with the infrastructure development of resources for local government during the thirteen (13) square miles island.global recession, strengthening local leadership, governance and finances, The machines cost approximately strategic partnership to improve local US$100,000.00.services and effective local government in small States. UNESCO Secretary General Visit

A high level United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization Local Government Introduction:(UNESCO) delegation led by Director Plans for the introduction of local General Koichiro Matsuura paid a visit to government in Carriacou and Petite the thirteen (13) square miles island of Martinique are gathering momentum, as Carriacou for the first time in the two in a series of public consultations were organization's 64 year history.held where the people shared their ideas on

how they would like to see local government implemented.

It is hoped that local government according to Section 107 (1) of the Grenada

Two of the main points coming out of the Constitution which states that “there shall be

consultations were that the council should a Council for Carriacou and Petite

not be an advisory body as proposed by Martinique, which shall be the principal

Professor Simeon McIntosh, Dean of the organ of local government in these islands

Faculty of Law University of the West will be introduced by mid 2010 when the bill

Indies Cave Hill Campus, who prepared a As part of his visit, Mr. Matsuura was given will be presented to parliament.working document but one with some form a tour of the Grand-Bay Archaeological Site, of autonomy over specified services and the which government hopes to develop as a Public Works Equipment:

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

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

given a tour of the Carriacou Museum where And to add, gain knowledge on the working he was able to view some of the artifacts of local Government Minister for Carriacou unearthed at the Grand-Bay Archaeological & Petite Martinique Affairs Senator Hon. Site and the rich cultural heritage of the George Prime along with Permanent people of Carriacou & Petite Martinique.Secretary Bernadette Lendore-Sylvester Mr. Matsuura was accompanied by Victor

Sologaistao: Chief of Latin America and Caribbean Section, Sector for External The machines were purchased from Trintrac A ff a i r s a n d C o o p e r a t i o n , To s i n Ltd. based in Trinidad and the company's Animashawun: Assistant Liaison Officer, Managing Director Andrew Bernard and Kwame Boafo: Director, UNESCO Technical Support & Control Quality Kingston Cluster and Lincoln Campbell: Department Manager were on the island to UN Local Security Assistant.provide training to the operators and

promised to provide the necessary technical and Public Relations Officer Deanna Isaac Minister for Carriacou & Petite Martinique support for the upkeep of the machines.attended the 2nd Regional Local Affairs, Senator the Hon. George Prime Government Conference and consultation in describes the visit by the Director General of Montego Bay, Jamaica on December 1st and UNESCO as historical and looks forward to 2nd, 2008 where a regional policy and working with UNESCO to develop the Twin cooperation framework on local governance Isle Constituency.and democracy was adopted.

Four Major Community Development Then, in May 2009 Minister Prime was Projects by GREPamong five hundred and fifty delegates from

The Grenada Rural Enterprise Project 48 countries who attended the 5th

( G R E P ) d e v e l o p e d f o u r m a j o r Commonwealth Local Government

infrastructural projects that will aid in the

MAJOR ACHIEVEMENTS OFMAJOR ACHIEVEMENTS OF

THE MINISTRY OF CARRIACOU &

PETITE MARTINIQUE

THE MINISTRY OF CARRIACOU &

PETITE MARTINIQUE FROM JULY 8TH, 2008

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development of the thirteen square miles undertake the relevant tasks required to Private Sector Partners with Division of island. In the village of Harvey Vale close to recommence the nursery in Carriacou. Sports to re-introduce table tennisthe basketball court a Human Resource The sport of table tennis has been re-Development Centre was constructed, this introduced in Carriacou. A number of the community hopes will be used as the corporate citizens both from Carriacou and main area of activities. Grenada have contributed financially

towards the purchasing of seven (7) table tennis boards and accessories.

The boards, placed at schools and community centres throughout the island, were officially handed over to the schools and community representatives on Friday The propagating of adequate quantities of November 14th, 2008 at the Hillsborough seedlings for utilization by the farming Community Centre.community has been identified as one area

Over on the Paradise Beach a toilet and needing immediate attention. The Ministry washroom facility was completed, this of Carriacou & Petite Martinique Affairs facility is necessary as the beach is one of has taken this very seriously, therefore the most scenic on the island that is every effort is being made to ensure that a frequently visited by tourists. GREP has wide variety of seedlings are available to also focused on road development as over in farmers and the general public at the Dumfries 2000ft. of road was constructed commencement of the planting season.and farmers, residents and businesses

Steel pan introduced to schools in Carriacou & Petite Martinique Minister of Carriacou and Petite Martinique With one of government's main thrust being Affairs, Senator the Hon. George Prime to develop all aspect of Carriacou's rich who was present at the ceremony said it is cultural heritage, the Division of Culture good when the private sector can within the Ministry of Carriacou & Petite collaborate with Government in improving Martinique Affairs hired well renowned the well-being of citizens. He further stated panist Leroy Sylvester to teach steel pan that sports play a critical role in maintaining music to the students of the primary and a healthy life.operating in that area expressed relief after secondary schools.

walking and driving on a dirt road for many Minister Prime was high in praise for Sports years.Officer, Joel Lendore who has been working steadfastly to ensure the young people of the two islands are actively involved in participating in different sporting disciplines.

Special commendation was given to former table tennis player Dennis Thomas who was quite instrumental in getting citizens to It is hoped that this well lead to the donate the tennis boards and accessories.The sister island of Petite Martinique was development of a number of bands, which

not left out as an Information Technology would then see a panorama competition on Centre was built on top of the primary the 13 square miles island. Some of the sponsors of the table tennis school on the island. The four projects cost boards include: Christopher Mills, Kent in over $1M EC dollars. Joseph: the Managing Director of Excel

Plaza, John “Barba” Gabriel, John “Oscar” Blair, Bobbys' Tyre Mart and Jerome Plant Propagation TrainingMcQuilkin of Carriacou Development More plants are available to the farmers of Corporation.Carriacou and Petite Martinique as two

persons Cindy Teka and Wilford Allard were on assignment at the Mirabeau Agricultural Station.

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

Meanwhile, it is the hope of the Ministry to introduce a number of cultural development

Free transportation of the tennis boards and sessions in the schools which would include accessories from Trinidad to Carriacou was poetry writing, drama and big drum dancing, contributed by Stephen “Scarper” Gay via with the aim of ensuring the preservation of

They were exposed to all aspects of plant the boat Mary C.the island's unique cultural heritage.propagation, which enabled them to

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RTO SPS

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

Among the athletes were Mickel Joseph who won both the 100m and 200m under 13 boys race, Reanna Allen who placed first in the under 11 girls Cricket Ball Throw, Andia Douglas who placed first in the Discuss Junior Girls Competition and Ryss Albert who took first place in both the High Jump and Shot-Put.

Senator Prime told the athletes that they should use their gift to “reach for the sky.” He committed the Ministry to do “all in its power to assist” in their development.

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

MINISTRY OF CARRIACOU& PETITE MARTINIQUE AFFAIRS SPORTS DIVISION AWARDS OUTSTANDING ATHLETES

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2009 GILBERT BRATHWAITE INTER-PRIMARY& INTER-SECONDARY CRICKET TOURNAMENT

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

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

The meet was won by Westmorland Twenty-three teams entered the with Alpha Junior placing secondcompetition in which Carriacou and Petite Martinique which registered separately. At the end of the swimming meet, Petite Martinique captured the third position, followed by Carriacou in fourth.

This is despite not having a swimming pool in which to conduct training Jay Benjamin of Petite Martinique was sessions. rated the second best male swimmer.

CARRIACOU & PETITE MARTINIQUESWIMMERS MADE SISTER ISLES PROUD

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More cricket matches will be Michael Smith from Grenada played in Carriacou as the was respons ib le fo r the Division of Sports within the construction of the new wicket. Ministry of Carriacou and Petite He is assisted by three persons M a r t i n i q u e A f f a i r s h a s from Carriacou. The wicket was constructed a turf wicket on the constructed with input from the grounds of the mini-stadium in M i n i s t r y o f Y o u t h Lauriston. Empowerment , Spor t s &

Culture.

According to Sports Officer Joel Lendore the construction of this wicket will boost the sport, as it s h o u l d l e a d t o g r e a t e r involvement by young people and the island can now benefit from some of the invitational games from international teams.

TURF WICKET CONSTRUCTED AT MINI-STADIUM

The development of cricket on the sister Michael Smith from Grenada and the islands of Carriacou & Petite men who worked along with him and Martinique is on a upward trend with said he will work to develop similar the construction of a turf wicket at the wickets at the playing fields in Mt. Cultural & Sporting Centre in Pleasant and Petite Martinique.Lauriston. The wicket which was a collaborative effort between the Following the commissioning of the Ministry of Carriacou & Petite turf wicket, the first match to be played Martinique Affairs and Ministry of at the centre, which was the final of the Sports was officially commissioned on Republic Bank Domestic Cricket Sunday June 21st, 2009. Tournament between Mt. Royal and

L'Esterre was played, Mt. Royal was Affairs, Joel Lendore it was a special For Sports Officer within the Ministry victorious.moment as he recalled at a meeting of of Carriacou & Petite Martinique the management team of the Ministry of

Youth Empowerment, Sports & Culture the idea for the turf wicket was thought of and today it is a reality. Lendore further added that this will boost the sport of cricket.

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

TURF WICKET AT CULTURAL & SPORTINGCENTRE OFFICIALLY COMMISSIONED

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He said that the government views sports as critical for the development of our people especially young people as it provides an outlet for Minister for Carriacou & Petite Martinique Affairs them to engage in positive activities.Senator the Hon. George Prime was among persons

at the Cultural & Sporting Centre in Lauriston to General Manager of Credit of Republic Bank witness the magnificent victory of the Mt. Royal Anthony Clarke said the bank was happy to be Cricket Club at the final of the Republic Bank associated with the development of cricket on the Domestic Cricket Tournament. Mt. Royal who sister islands and pledged their continued support.batted first scored a total of 210 runs while L'Esterre

was only able to reply with 166.Also attending the final was Cecil Greenidge, President of the Grenada Cricket Association.In delivering brief remarks at the closing ceremony

of the tournament, Minister Prime said that the Meanwhile, some of the outstanding players during tournament shows what can be accomplished the tournament included Aldon Moses, Milton through partnerships as the government provides Joseph, Enroy Modeste and Livingston Andrew the facilities, Republic Bank the sponsorship and from the Mt. Royal Cricket Team who was awarded the Carriacou United Cricket Board responsible for the best player overall he was given the Minister's organizing and running the tournament.bat among other prizes.

Mt. Royal Champions of the 2009 Republic Bank Cricket Tournament

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

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

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

The Ministry of Carriacou & Petite Martinique Affairs led by Senator the Hon. George Prime is providing support for her travel.

“I want to encourage Diana to do her best with the team. She has earned her selection and we in Carriacou hope that her contribution to the Grenada team while on tour will bring success to the team,” said Minister Prime.

Kayak Selected to be a part of

Grenada National Netball Under 23 Team

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

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

Petite Martinique

Whitsuntide Regatta 2009

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Senator the Hon. George Prime has called on He said while government sees the labour workers in Carriacou and Petite Martinique to movement as a critical partner in development, develop innovative skills which will help improve employees must let the quality of their work be the productivity in the workplace. measuring stick by which they are judged, so they

can be considered a valuable asset to the workplace.

The May Day celebration also heard messages of In what was seen as a May Day celebration with a solidarity from the various trade unions. The event difference, the Minister responsible for Carriacou was followed by a march through the streets of & Petite Martinique Affairs shared the day with Hillsborough which culminated with eating and workers for the first time in many years as the merriment at the Hillsborough Government School previous Minister had not attended the celebrations grounds.in the past few years. In his remarks, Minister Prime

told workers they should not take their jobs for granted.

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

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

May Day Celebrations in Carriacou a success

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DY EVT EI LN OU PMM EM NO TC

Six families in Carriacou now have Affairs, Senator Hon. George better housing as a result of the Prime, complimented Housing Co-government's Home Improvement ordinators Patricia Paterson and Programme. Christopher Samuel for overseeing

the rebuilding of the homes. He noted that the assistance of the b u s i n e s s c o m m u n i t y a n d contractors demonstrate that community spirit is alive in Carriacou.

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

The six, Elizabeth Bubb, Henry Lambert, Casintha Stafford, Zilla Lawrence, Donnette Prime and Kenson Peters, were handed the keys to their new houses at an official ceremony at the Resource Minister Prime emphasized that Centre in Hillsborough. n e e d h a s n o c o l o u r a n d

“government must do things for the people's development.” He said, “the NDC administration is not

out that while the Ministry received concerned about who support which

20 requests from Carriacou, priority political party before they can get

was given to assisting most materials or a house built.”

vulnerable.

The recipients all expressed their In his remarks Minister for

gratitude to the government. One Carriacou & Petite Martinique

recipient, Henry “Mawi” Lambert, said he is “happy that he has his own key after living under vines” since 2004 when his home was destroyed by Hurricane Ivan. Under the programme, the materials

were provided by the government, Program Co-ordinator of the while the houses were built through Housing Programme Kallan Simon community help led by Karl was also present at the ceremony.Benjamin, Julien Calliste and

others.

SIX FAMILIES IN CARRIACOUBENEFIT FROM HOUSING PROGRAMME

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Forty-two persons in Carriacou are now better equipped The tutors for the programmes were Davon Baker - in computer skills, food preparation and sewing thanks Computer, Beverly Bartholomew - Food and Stephanie to the Grenada Rural Enterprise Programme (GREP) Antoine - Sewing who all expressed gratitude to GREP who sponsored skills training in those three areas over a for giving them the opportunity to pass on their skills to three months period. others. However, for Ms. Bartholomew it was twofold

as GREP also sponsored the repair of the food laboratory at the Hillsborough Secondary School to the tune of $13,000.00.

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

It is now hoped that the participants will put what they Centres at Harvey Vale and Petite Martinique.have learnt into good use as this was implored to them by Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Carriacou & Petite Martinique Affairs Bernadette Lendore-Sylvester and Personal Assistant to the Minister Anderson Matheson during the closing ceremony for the programmes.

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

GREP SKILLS TRAINING PROGRAMMES DUBBED A SUCCESS

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I had the honour and good fortune more recently to witness the historical society award to him for his sterling contribution. And there I learnt 2 things:

that he was one of the central figures in the Carriacou Historical Society. He had an obsession with history and that he spent long hours and numerous weekends at the museum to make it what it is today and I want to now add a third, members did not know they were planning Edward's send off, but also tomorrow is planned to no one.

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

It is with profound sadness and a sense of obligation, that as Minister for Carriacou & Petite Martinique • preservation of cultural heritage;Affairs on behalf of the people of Carriacou & Petite • agriculture; andMartinique I want to pay tribute to the life of Dr. Edward • Grenada Model Farm Corp.Kent, OBE.

And so Edward in the words of the prayer of St. Ignatius Dr. Kent had devoted enormous energies, time and of Loyola - you gave without counting the cost, fought resources to document the rich cultural heritage of our and did not heed the wounds, you toiled without seeking beloved 13 square miles island. This he done through his rest. You laboured and asked for no reward other than membership as the historian with the Carriacou knowing that you did His will. For these gifts and many, Historical Society of which he was one of the founding more on behalf of the Ministry, Rest in peace.members.

Carriacou has lost a true friend, a worthy champion of its With great insight, profound dedication and an past, devoted mentor to several generations whose door uncommon empathy, Dr. Kent told the story of the was always open to those who came his way.people of Carriacou. His contribution was not only in preserving the cultural heritage of our island but also in agricultural management through the Craigston Lime Factory and cattle breeding and for this in 2007 he received the Doctor of Laws (LLD) from the University of the West Indies.

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

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

MINISTER PRIME PAYS TRIBUTE TO HISTORIAN EDWARD KENT

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INTERNATIONAL daydayFF iilly y

IN CARRIACOU A SUCCESS

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People from throughout Carriacou converged at the Paradise

Beach on Sunday, May 17th as the Division of Gender & Family

Affairs within the Ministry of Carriacou & Petite Martinique Affairs

hosted a fun day in recognition of International Family Day.

The theme of the day was “Mothers and families: Challenges in a

changing world”. President of the Grenada Organization of

Woman, Elaine Henry-McQueen, who shared the day with the

people of Carriacou, said that the family is the building block of

society and plays a major role in the building of the society. She

further stated that there is a need to deal with problems affecting

households because “a dysfunctional family creates a

dysfunctional society.”

Minister for Carriacou & Petite Martinique Affairs, Senator Hon.

George Prime delivered the keynote address. He noted that there

is a need to find creative ways to address problems affecting

families in today's society. He said it is important to instill values of

love, respect, honesty and integrity at home as children live what

they learn.

Also forming part of the function was the presentation of

certificates to HIV/AIDS advocates, Vinishah Cudjoe who is also

the co-ordinator for Gender Affairs and Louise Joseph.

Meanwhile, as part of GNOW's Community Support Network,

17 volunteers (16 females, 1 male) underwent one week of

training aimed at strengthening communities by supporting

women to overcome gender based violence. They received their

certificate of participation during the staging of International

Family Day.

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ULC TI UR RG EA

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More than 60 families in Carriacou & Petite Martinique are beneficiaries of the Food Security Programme, which aims to encourage nationals to consume more locally-produced items and to help reduce spending on imports such as chicken. Our national food import bill is estimated at $156 million.

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

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

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

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

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

production.

FOOD SECURITY PROGRAMME LAUNCHED IN CARRIACOU & PETITE MARTINIQUE

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In keeping with the government's approach to the

delivery of services through private-public-

partnership, the Division of Agriculture in the

Ministry of Carriacou & Petite Martinique Affairs

is pleased to inform the general public that a new

tractor service is now available at a rate of

$80.00 per hour.

All persons interested in

the service should contactMr. John Blair,

Six Roads, Carriacouat telephone no. 443-6364.

All payments for ploughing must be made

immediately before the ploughing of one's plot of

land is completed as there is no system for credit.

We want to thank Mr. Blair for his confidence in

this new partnership arrangement and to thank

you for your patience as we proceed with the

ploughing on a zonal basis starting in the south

and look forward to your cooperation.

In the meantime all arrangements are being

made to increase the availability of the tractor

services.

PUBLIC NOTICE

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

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

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

It is hoped that farmers and members of households will take advantage of this opportunity, as it will save them the cost and hassle of traveling to Grenada to purchase plants.

“It is very important for farmers and people in Carriacou generally to have access to these plants as we work to have a thriving agricultural sector restored here. It will help to stimulate essential gardening, which will supplement the incomes of families who take up the challenge,” said Minister for Carriacou and Petite Martinique Affairs, Sen. Hon George Prime.

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

AGRICULTURE REVITALIZATIONON STREAM IN CARRIACOU

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

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

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

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

SMALL RUMINANTS FARMERSATTEND TRAINING WORKSHOP

ON INTERNAL PARASITES

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

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

The training was facilitated by Howard Mitchell, a Petite Mar t in ique f i she rman in collaboration with the Fisheries Division of the Ministry of Carriacou & Petite Martinique Affairs.

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

FISH AGGREGATING DEVICE (FAD) TRAINING INPETITE MARTINIQUE

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The Ministry of Agriculture on Wednesday successfully mainly milk, butter and cheese, in order to reduce the national launched the artificial insemination programme for cows in food import bill.”Carriacou. The programme is part of the revitalization of agriculture by increasing the production and productivity of Minister Prime noted that the introduction of artificial both crop and livestock, which forms an important element of insemination will lead to the production of superior calves, the government's agenda. which require better management. He said it also provides an

opportunity for the improvement in the hygiene and safety of Minister for Carriacou & Petite Martinique Affairs Senator milk, in order to be competitive in the market. He encouraged Hon. George Prime, in delivering the keynote address, told the the formation of a cooperative among farmers and was high in gathering that while there is a need to improve the genetic base praise for Livestock Consultant Pweil Mwasha.for milk and meat, there is also a need to “change our mindset toward consumption of locally produced livestock products, Chief Inseminator Yvonne Telesford, artificially inseminated

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

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

ARTIFICIAL INSEMINATIONPROGRAMME LAUNCHED IN CARRIACOU

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

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

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

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

ABANDONED ACCESSROADS CLEARED

Alister Antoine and Nurse Lydia Phillip of the Ministry of Health.

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

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

Nurse Lydia Phillip, who is part of the health promotions team, said the Ministry has prepared a health declaration form

Representatives of various stakeholder groups in Carriacou & for use at the airport. She said teams will be going into the Petite Martinique were briefed by health officials on the schools to do sessions on the virus.government's plans for dealing with the new swine flu virus.

Participants attending the meeting were concerned about the The Ministry of Carriacou & Petite Martinique Affairs, the availability of a building for the isolation of infected persons police, tourism and health personnel attended the meeting at should an outbreak take place and the transportation of the Hillsborough Health Centre, which was addressed by Dr. samples from Carriacou to Grenada.

required to travel to Grenada to have “These are things which do not require their pictures taken for the preparation major policy changes or great of their driver's licence. In a new expenditure. I am very pleased that we, arrangement, the Licencing Officer will as a government, were able to make this visit Carriacou once per month for three happen with all the benefits going to the days in order to take photographs. people of Carriacou & Petiet

Martinique,” said Senator Prime.The license will be completed and sent back to Carriacou one week later. His position was echoed by the Residents will be able to collect the new Minister of Finance, Hon. Nazim Burke permit at the Carriacou Police Station. who described the move as a Persons who have already taken the “welcomed change.”

The people of Carriacou & Petite picture, can check in with Inspector Martinique will no longer be required Richard Langdon at the Carriacou to travel to St. George's to process their Police Station. They are required to driver's license. produce their old driving license when

collecting the new one.As part of the fulfillment of a promise by the Minister of Carriacou & Petite This was one of the issues discussed at a Martinique Affairs, Sen. George Prime recent townhall meeting attended by , over 70 licenses were processed and members of Cabinet. Senator Prime and sent back to the people of the sister Minister for Finance, Nazim Burke islands. both gave the undertaking that the

hassle associated with persons In the past residents paid for their traveling to Grenada to get a new licenses in Hillsborough but were drivers license should end.

STAKEHOLDERS IN CARRIACOU & PETITE MARTINIQUE BRIEFED ON SWINE FLU

COLLECTION OF DRIVER'S LICENCE IN CARRIACOU NOW A REALITY

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

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

Senator the Hon. George Prime, Montague, Minister of State for Local Minister for Carriacou & Petite Government in Jamaica and Head of Martinique Affairs was among five the Caribbean Local Government hundred and fifty delegates from forty- Ministers Forum, noted that leaders eight countries , who met in Freeport, must be visionary and not allow the Bahamas, from May 11th-14th on the global financial crisis to erode gains in occasion of the fifth Commonwealth local government. He declared that now Local Government Conference and is the time for countries to realize the G e n e r a l M e e t i n g o f t h e significant role that local government Commonwealth Local Government plays in re-energizing the economy. He Forum (CLGF). said there must be shared vision.

Some of the delegates also had an His attendance at the conference, Other speakers at the conference opportunity to visit a number of hosted by the Government of the included Winston Cox, Executive capacity building projects in the Grand Bahamas, was critical, as the Grenada Director of the Inter-American Bahama, while the others attended a government seeks to implement the special workshop on using technology constitutional provisions for local to improve local government.government for the people of Carriacou

and Petite Martinique. The four day Minister Prime had the opportunity to conference looked at a broad range of co-chair the working session focused issues including identifying resources on effective local government in small for local government during global states. He was accompanied by Public recession, s t rengthening local Relations Officer, Deanna Isaac.leadership, governance and finances,

strategic partnership to improve local The next Commonwealth Local services and effective local government Government Conference takes place in in small states.Wales in 2011.

Development Bank, who emphasized In delivering an address on improving that the bank will support projects that local government, Hon. Robert are sensitive to national circumstances.

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

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

FIFTH LOCAL GOVERNMENT CONFERENCE IN FREEPORT, BAHAMAS A SUCCESS

HIGHLIGHT OF BAHAMIAN CULTURE

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

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

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

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

NaDMA CARRIACOU PREPARES CITIZENS FOR 2009 HURRICANE SEASON

Four residents of the Top Hill Senior Citizens Home youngest clubs in the region. He said Carriacou received are now more comfortable, thanks to the Rotary Clubs fifty of the more than 1000 chairs the club was able to of Carriacou and Felicity, Trinidad. The four residents solicit.were recipients of brand new wheel chairs.

The Top Hill Senior Citizens Home, which has fifteen According to President of the Rotary Club of residents, was not the only beneficiary. Two residents of Carriacou, Cosnel McIntosh, this was an effort of the the Hermitage Nursing Home and individual families also Rotary Club of Felicity, Trinidad, which is one of the benefited from this gesture.

ROTARY CLUBS ASSIST ELDERLY IN CARRIACOU

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HINI AlertCover your mouth when you

cough and sneeze, or use a tissue.

Wash your hands after you: Sneeze,

Use the Bathroom,Before you eat.

Wash your hands before you: touch your eyes,

mouth or nose.

BEFORE A HURRICANE

* Check to be certain that your

emergency equipment is in good

working order.

* Store water, food and essential

medicines.

* Have enough supplies for at least

two (2) weeks.

* Obtain and store materials to

protect your home.

* Review your insurance policy to

ensure it provides adequate

coverage.

* Do you have elderly friends or

relatives who will stay with you

during a storm? Keep a list of

their prescribed medications, and

be sure to include them in food

and water storage plans.

* Have a flashlight with batteries

handy.

* Have a battery operated radio

available.

* Have a First Aid Kit handy.

* Pick fruits and trim trees if near

house.

* Plan for Evacuation.

* Listen to the weather reports on

radio and televison.

DURING A HURRICANE

* Remain calm and provide

assurance to children and

elderly.

* In cases where your house is

damaged and the main switch is

still on, it is always wise to

switch it off. Ideally you should

do so before a hurricane.

* Where there are heavy lightning

flashes, avoid getting into contact

with metal objects. Stay out of

the shower or bath during ALL

storms.

* Avoid going outdoors until the

is given.‘all clear’

What Should You Do?

AFTER A HURRICANE

* Assist in search and rescue.

* Seek medical attention for persons

injured.

* Clean up debris and effect

temporary repairs.

* Report damage to utilities.

* Assist in road clearance.

* Watch out for secondary hazards,

fire, flooding, etc.

* Assist in community response

efforts.

* Avoid sightseeing.

* Co-operate with Damage

Assessors.

* Avoid getting into contact with

lines lying on the ground.

* Report to the Grenada Electricity

Services (GRENLEC) all damaged

or broken poles/wires etc. which

may be seen in your area, as soon

as possible.

Government Printery