分类： society

The Grenadian government has issued an urgent call to action for agricultural producers nationwide to dramatically scale up domestic food production in response to growing global instability and rising import costs. Dr. Stephen Fletcher, Head of the Rural Development Unit (RDU) within the Ministry of Economic Development, Planning, Blue Economy and Cooperatives, emphasized that achieving food self-sufficiency has become a critical matter of national sovereignty and resilience.

The comprehensive mobilization strategy targets farmers, fishermen, and livestock producers across Grenada, Carriacou, and Petite Martinique. The initiative focuses on several key pillars: expanding cultivation of staple crops fundamental to the national diet, diversifying agricultural products to reduce import dependency, implementing climate-resilient farming techniques, and developing robust marketing channels including supermarkets, hotels, and restaurants to ensure affordable distribution.

Dr. Fletcher underscored the existential urgency of the situation, stating that failure to act decisively would leave the nation vulnerable to external shocks and fluctuating global markets. He framed food security as not merely an economic issue but one of national dignity and self-determination.

The government has committed substantial support through technical assistance, training programs, grant funding, and partnership development aimed at enhancing productivity and strengthening agricultural livelihoods. Simultaneously, the RDU is encouraging households to participate through complementary measures including backyard gardening, bulk purchasing and preservation techniques, energy-efficient cooking methods, and preferential purchasing of local produce.

The campaign’s overarching message—’Plant Today, Feed Tomorrow’—encapsulates the collective effort required to insulate Grenada from global food price volatility and supply chain disruptions while ensuring all citizens have consistent access to affordable, nutritious food.

The Eastern Caribbean Telecommunications Authority (ECTEL) has announced a significant career opportunity for legal professionals specializing in regulatory affairs. The organization is currently accepting applications for the position of Legal Officer – Regulatory Affairs, to be based at its regional headquarters in St. Lucia.

This senior role operates under the direct supervision of the General Counsel/Secretary to the ECTEL Board of Directors. The successful candidate will assume critical responsibilities including serving as the primary liaison with National Telecommunications Regulatory Commissions (NTRCs) regarding technical advice and assistance requests. The position requires providing comprehensive legal interpretation and opinions on electronic communications and telecommunications regulatory matters, preparing legal opinions on administrative and contract issues, and advising ECTEL Contracting States on sector-specific legal considerations.

Additional duties encompass evaluating license applications, addressing customer complaints, reviewing access and interconnection agreements, and assessing regulatory compliance with the Telecommunications Act/Electronic Communications Act. The officer will also coordinate regulatory activities supporting the ECTEL framework, ensure compliance with ECTEL’s recommendations and NTRC decisions, advise on licensing procedures and tender processes, and facilitate the appointment of mediators and arbitrators. The role further involves drafting model electronic communications legislation and reviewing international agreements and treaties.

Qualified applicants must possess a first degree in law from an English Commonwealth university, a Legal Education Certificate or equivalent qualification, and admission to a Commonwealth Bar, preferably within ECTEL or CARICOM member states. A minimum of five years’ experience in a similar capacity is mandatory, while postgraduate qualifications or three years’ experience in legal drafting and/or electronic communications regulation would be considered advantageous. Prior experience in regulatory agencies or public law is also desirable.

The position demands demonstrated competencies in corporate governance, regulatory policy development, sound legal judgment, advanced research capabilities, and strong communication and presentation skills. The role requires a service-oriented professional with excellent planning abilities who can work both independently and collaboratively.

The appointment offers permanent status following successful completion of a probation period. The compensation package, classified as Grade 4, is income tax-free and includes comprehensive housing and vehicle allowances. Based at ECTEL’s St. Lucia headquarters, the successful candidate recruited from outside the duty station will receive relocation support including baggage allowances and vehicle transfer costs.

Interested candidates must apply through ECTEL’s official portal at https://ectel.bamboohr.com/careers/15 by April 13, 2026, at 4:30 PM. Applications require submission of a detailed curriculum vitae, three professional references with contact information, and certified copies of relevant academic and professional certificates.