标签: Grenada

格林纳达

  • Trinidad and Tobago PM to make official visit in new year

    Trinidad and Tobago PM to make official visit in new year

    The Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago, Kamla Persad-Bissessar SC, is preparing for an official diplomatic visit to Grenada in early 2026, marking a significant milestone in bilateral energy cooperation between the Caribbean nations. While specific dates remain unconfirmed, Press Secretary Neila Ettienne acknowledged the planned visit following widespread speculation across social media platforms.

    The upcoming high-level engagement traces its origins to technical energy discussions that gained momentum throughout 2025. The potential visit was initially referenced during an October 2025 town hall meeting where Nazim Burke and members of Grenada’s oil and gas Technical Working Group provided progress updates on cross-border energy collaboration.

    Technical Consultant Geoscientist Helena Innis, representing Trinidadian expertise, revealed that Trinidad’s Energy Minister Dr. Roodal Moonilal had previously conducted an unofficial working visit to Grenada. During his August 23-24, 2025 mission, Dr. Moonilal engaged in high-level discussions with Grenadian Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell and other officials, expressing Trinidad and Tobago’s commitment to supporting Grenada’s hydrocarbon sector development.

    Innis elaborated that both nations have established a functional cooperation framework operationalized through a six-member steering committee with equal representation from both countries. The collaboration, formalized through a 2012 Memorandum of Understanding on energy development, encompasses technical cooperation and strategic marketing of Grenada’s natural gas resources through Trinidad and Tobago’s established energy infrastructure.

    The anticipated prime ministerial visit signifies the elevation of energy cooperation from technical working groups to the highest diplomatic levels, potentially unlocking new economic opportunities for both Caribbean neighbors while strengthening regional energy security.

  • GIZ Request for Proposals: Supervision check dam

    GIZ Request for Proposals: Supervision check dam

    The German development agency GIZ has issued a formal Request for Proposals seeking qualified construction supervision consultants for Grenada’s Climate-Resilient Water Sector (G-CREWS) Project. This initiative targets the enhancement of critical water infrastructure through specialized retrofitting operations.

    The successful candidate will provide expert oversight for up to 55 working days between February 2 and June 30, 2026. Primary responsibilities include supervising construction and modernization activities at three key dam intake sites: Zulu Dam, Mirabeau Dam, and Mt Plaisir Dam. The consultant must ensure all infrastructure installations strictly adhere to designated technical specifications and quality standards.

    A critical component of the role involves integrating comprehensive environmental protections, climate variability adaptations, and social safeguards—including gender-sensitive approaches—throughout the supervision process. The consultancy package additionally offers an optional provision for extending services to two additional sites beyond the core assignments.

    Interested parties must submit separate technical and pricing proposals in PDF format to [email protected] before the deadline of 4:30 PM Eastern Caribbean Time on January 20, 2026. All email submissions must include the specific subject line ‘Supervision check dam’ for proper processing. GIZ will provide automated confirmation receipts for all electronically received bids.

    Detailed specifications and requirements are available in the attached Terms of Reference document. This project represents a significant step in strengthening Grenada’s water security against climate-related challenges.

  • Nexa Credit Union spreads holiday cheer

    Nexa Credit Union spreads holiday cheer

    Nexa Credit Union has redefined holiday banking by transforming its annual Christmas Loan Promotion into a comprehensive community enrichment campaign. Moving beyond conventional financial services, the institution embedded its ‘people helping people’ philosophy into a series of initiatives that blended financial support with tangible community benefits.

    The centerpiece of this year’s ‘Happier Holiday Christmas Loan Promotion’ was an innovative educational grant competition. Ten local schools participated in an engaging digital campaign from December 1-19, creating social media content and mobilizing their communities through daily online polling. After nearly three weeks of enthusiastic participation, Corinth Government School secured victory with 613 votes, earning the EC$5,000 grand prize dedicated to enhancing educational facilities. Bishop’s College followed closely with 563 votes, while St. Martin de Porres Catholic School garnered 344 votes to complete the top three.

    Parallel to the educational initiative, Nexa distributed festive rewards across multiple channels. Each of the credit union’s five branches selected one fortunate member for prizes based on transaction activity during the promotion period. The institution’s social media presence came alive with a Mystery Gift Wrap campaign that awarded three followers with surprise packages, while one loan applicant received the ultimate holiday experience: a three-person day pass to Sandals resort.

    Randy Frank, Deputy General Manager of Nexa Credit Union, emphasized the strategic thinking behind these initiatives: ‘Our Christmas campaign embodies Nexa’s core values. During this special season, we’re reminded that our responsibility extends beyond financial services to actively uplifting our members and strengthening community bonds through shared joy and support.’

    The credit union expressed gratitude to all participants, noting that collective engagement transformed the promotion into a genuine celebration of generosity and connection. Nexa continues to invite community members to stay informed about future initiatives through their official website and social media channels.

  • Ring in the New Year at Christmas at the Point!

    Ring in the New Year at Christmas at the Point!

    The Rotary Club of Grenada announces the final week of its acclaimed Christmas at the Point (CATP) event, inviting residents and visitors to experience the magical Monica Benoit Wonderland of Lights before the seasonal attraction concludes on January 4th, 2026. This cherished community tradition transforms Quarantine Point Recreational Park into an immersive holiday destination featuring spectacular light displays, entertainment, and culinary experiences.

    From December 30th through January 4th, the park will operate daily with gates opening at 5:00 PM, offering families a final opportunity to create lasting memories. The event’s diverse programming includes open-air cinema screenings under the stars, guided Tuk Tuk tours through illuminated pathways, and a specially designed Santa’s Grotto with interactive experiences for children.

    Visitors can enjoy an array of local culinary offerings from food vendors while participating in karaoke sessions, live musical performances, and community games. The admission structure maintains affordable accessibility with standard rates at $5 for walk-in visitors, $10 per vehicle, and $20 for premium carload placement.

    New Year’s Eve (December 31st) features special pricing with advance purchase discounts available at $20 walk-in, $50 per carload, and $70 premium access. Same-day purchases will be priced at $25, $70, and $100 respectively. This community initiative, organized by Rotary Club of Grenada, represents one of the island’s most anticipated annual family-friendly celebrations, blending holiday traditions with local culture and entertainment.

  • Ministry of Health clarifies social media report on disease trends in Grenada

    Ministry of Health clarifies social media report on disease trends in Grenada

    The Grenada Ministry of Health has issued a formal rebuttal against circulating social media posts suggesting unusual disease outbreaks in the country. Health authorities confirm that comprehensive surveillance data does not support these claims, emphasizing that current disease patterns align with expected seasonal trends.

    According to official monitoring systems, respiratory illnesses have shown a predictable increase corresponding with annual influenza season patterns. This trend has been further amplified by heightened population mobility during peak tourism season and Christmas holiday travels.

    Health officials documented a notable spike in Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease cases during Epidemiological Week 42 (concluding October 18, 2025), primarily affecting children across multiple educational institutions. The ministry responded with a detailed press release on October 31, 2025, outlining containment protocols and preventive measures to control transmission.

    COVID-19 indicators remain reassuringly low, with minimal positivity rates indicating constrained community transmission. Investigations into reported flu-like symptoms among tourism sector workers confirmed alignment with broader seasonal respiratory patterns, with no evidence of coronavirus clusters detected.

    Concurrently, gastroenteritis cases have reached intervention threshold levels, though remaining within anticipated seasonal parameters. The ministry has escalated pathogen testing protocols to precisely identify circulating strains and guide appropriate public health responses.

    Health authorities underscored that all epidemiological data undergoes rigorous analysis by qualified professionals before dissemination. Official communications regarding public health risks are exclusively channeled through authorized ministry platforms to ensure information accuracy and prevent unnecessary public alarm.

    The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to evidence-based health management and transparency, urging citizens to rely exclusively on official communications for accurate health information while maintaining recommended preventive practices.

  • Traffic notice: Hillsborough Street, St George’s

    Traffic notice: Hillsborough Street, St George’s

    The Royal Grenada Police Force (RGPF) Traffic Department has issued a significant public advisory concerning a prolonged infrastructure-related road closure in the capital. Hillsborough Street, a key thoroughfare in St. George’s, will be completely inaccessible to vehicles from its junctions with Melville Street and Halifax Street. Authorities have confirmed this closure will remain in effect for an extended period, lasting until Saturday, January 3rd, 2026.

    The RGPF, in its official communication, extended apologies to the public and motorists for any disruptions caused by this necessary closure. The police force emphasized the importance of the project necessitating the long-term shutdown and formally requested the understanding and full cooperation of all citizens and commuters during this multi-year period. The announcement was formally disseminated through the Office of the Commissioner of Police, underscoring its official status.

  • RGPF establishes units to fight digital crimes

    RGPF establishes units to fight digital crimes

    In a strategic move to combat the escalating threat of digital crime, the Royal Grenada Police Force (RGPF) has formally launched two specialized technology units. Commissioner Randy Connaught announced the establishment of a Digital Forensic Unit and a Drones Unit during his year-end press conference, highlighting significant technological investments to address crimes ranging from digital fraud and data theft to online harassment.

    The Drone Unit, which began with a single aircraft, has now expanded into a full fleet operated by qualified pilots, with additional personnel currently undergoing training. While Commissioner Connaught showcased the drone program’s expansion, operational details of the Digital Forensic Unit remain closely guarded.

    This law enforcement modernization aligns with broader national security initiatives. Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell addressed Parliament in August 2024, emphasizing drone technology’s revolutionary potential, particularly for healthcare applications, and announced forthcoming regulations governing drone operations, including no-fly zones. However, these policies have not yet been formally gazetted into law.

    Assistant Commissioner Vannie Curwen provided stark context for these developments, noting the increasing digitalization of criminal activity. “We have been able to build out a Digital Forensic Unit giving us the capacity to go far, deep and wide into everything,” Curwen stated. “Every electronic gadget that is used to commit a crime, we will find you, and if you delete it, we will be able to find it again.”

    The urgency of these measures is underscored by a regional situational assessment conducted under the World Bank-funded Caribbean Digital Transformation Project (CARDTP). Published in August 2025, the report reveals cyber threats are proliferating faster than public comprehension, with Grenada showing particularly concerning trends.

    Focus groups conducted with Grenadian citizens revealed widespread experience with cyber incidents—from scams to impersonation and cyberbullying—yet fewer than half of participants could accurately define basic cybersecurity terms like “phishing” or “two-factor authentication.” Many believed cybercrime only targeted large institutions rather than ordinary citizens, and reporting rates remained low due to uncertainty about procedures, fear of embarrassment, and lack of trust in response systems.

    The assessment recommends comprehensive public education campaigns, increased visibility of cybersecurity resources like CSIRT Grenada, and enhanced support systems for vulnerable groups including teachers, parents, seniors, and small businesses.

  • Why do libraries still matter today? Part 3

    Why do libraries still matter today? Part 3

    In an era dominated by digital isolation, libraries are reasserting their role as vital community anchors that foster human connection and social cohesion. This examination, part of a continuing series on library relevance, explores how these institutions actively combat societal fragmentation through purposeful community building initiatives.

    Libraries transcend their traditional identity as mere repositories of books, evolving into dynamic spaces that facilitate meaningful human interaction. Grounded in fundamental human rights principles, public libraries particularly exemplify commitments to diversity, inclusion, and equity. These values manifest practically through welcoming policies that extend access to all community members, including marginalized populations such as homeless individuals seeking refuge and intellectual engagement.

    The digital revolution, while delivering numerous benefits, has simultaneously exacerbated physical and mental health challenges through increased social isolation. Recognizing these contemporary issues, forward-thinking libraries are redesigning both physical spaces and programming to actively support community wellbeing. Within library walls, diverse interest groups flourish—from traditional book clubs to coding workshops, artistic gatherings, and cultural programs—creating organic connections through shared interests.

    At T.A. Marryshow Community College (TAMCC), library staff have institutionalized community building through structured engagement strategies. The library facilitates informal interaction via specially designed Fun & Games segments during key academic periods, including Christmas celebrations, Library Week, and pre-examination stress relief sessions. Beyond recreational activities, the library maintains classroom integration through practical educational sessions covering research skills, APA formatting, digital storytelling, and professional portfolio development.

    Critically, TAMCC’s community commitment extends beyond campus boundaries through its ongoing outreach initiatives. The recently concluded seventh Gilda Campos Outreach program at St. George’s Methodist School exemplifies this external engagement, continuing a tradition that has previously served senior citizens’ homes, facilities for disabled persons, and other educational institutions. These hour-long sessions combine reading activities, musical interaction, games, and motivational speaking, supplemented by donations of books by Grenadian authors and essential stationery items.

    Ultimately, modern libraries function as social infrastructure that actively mitigates digital society’s shortcomings. By providing inclusive physical spaces, facilitating interest-based connections, and extending services to vulnerable populations, libraries demonstrate enduring relevance as institutions that fundamentally strengthen community bonds through the promotion of mutual respect and shared humanity.

  • TAMCC and Grenada Union of Teachers sign historic collective bargaining agreement

    TAMCC and Grenada Union of Teachers sign historic collective bargaining agreement

    In a groundbreaking advancement for Grenada’s educational landscape, the T A Marryshow Community College (TAMCC) and the Grenada Union of Teachers (GUT) have established their inaugural collective bargaining agreement. The pivotal signing ceremony occurred on December 24, 2025, creating a specialized negotiation framework exclusively for college lecturers for the first time in the institution’s history.

    This tripartite agreement, effective from January 1, 2026 through December 31, 2028, signifies a transformative moment in recognizing faculty rights, working conditions, and professional status. The negotiated package comprises two fundamental documents: “The Terms and Conditions of Employment for Faculty in the Bargaining Unit” and “The Wages for GUT Membership of Faculty Employed by TAMCC.” These comprehensive agreements delineate detailed salary scales, supplementary benefits, and employment terms applicable to academic staff throughout the designated period.

    The ceremonial proceedings were attended by distinguished representatives from both institutions. TAMCC’s delegation included Dr. Wendy Grenade, Chairperson of the College Council, and Council Member Samantha Antoine-Purcell. The teachers’ union was represented by President General Jude Bartholomew and General Secretary Melissa St Rose. Adding national significance to the event, Grenada’s Labour Commissioner Sparkle Grenade-Courtney witnessed the formal signing, emphasizing the agreement’s importance within the country’s education sector.

    College authorities attributed the successful negotiation outcome to constructive dialogue and mutual dedication between both parties. Special recognition was extended to Dr. John Telesford, TAMCC’s Deputy Principal, for his instrumental role in developing the benefits package, and Learie Barry, College Council member, for his contributions to the wage structure formulation. The Cabinet and Government of Grenada received acknowledgment for their steadfast support in facilitating the agreement’s completion and implementation.

    This pioneering accord establishes a positive benchmark for collective bargaining practices throughout Grenada. Beyond providing clarity and structure for lecturer benefits, it reinforces TAMCC’s dedication to cultivating an equitable, transparent, and supportive professional environment for its academic workforce. The institution projects that this framework will enhance productivity, strengthen accountability, and deliver measurable value across college operations as faculty members gain empowerment to perform at their optimal professional capacity.

    Through this collaborative mechanism, TAMCC advances its fundamental mission of academic excellence, robust governance, and sustainable development while promoting industrial harmony and consolidating its position as Grenada’s premier tertiary education provider.

  • Police: Former senator’s death not yet classified

    Police: Former senator’s death not yet classified

    Grenadian authorities have confirmed that the investigation into the August death of former opposition senator Neilon Franklyn remains ongoing, with no conclusive determination yet made regarding whether the death was a homicide, suicide, or accident.

    Assistant Commissioner of Police Vannie Curwen addressed the case during the year-end police news conference on December 24th, characterizing the investigation as “very complex” and noting that authorities are awaiting results from regional forensic laboratories. “I do not want to speak specifically on Neilon’s matter except to say this matter is still under investigation,” Curwen stated. “It is a matter that we have been assisted with both locally and regionally in terms of some of the labs that we have been working with.”

    The investigation is being directed by Christopher Nelson, Grenada’s Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), who is overseeing all aspects of the case. Curwen emphasized that the prolonged investigation reflects professionalism rather than secrecy, stating: “Our Director of Public Prosecution is leading that investigation; he is directing that investigation, and at some point, when he feels comfortable that he has all that he needs, he will address the nation.”

    Franklyn, who was appointed as an opposition senator by former Opposition Leader Dr. Keith Mitchell, resigned from his parliamentary position in September 2024 and returned to his previous role as a customs officer. His death occurred at The General Hospital after he collapsed at his home following an evening of social activities. Franklyn was buried in September, though the circumstances surrounding his death remain officially undetermined.

    Curwen concluded that authorities would only make public statements when they had “definitive answers, the data, the result, the testing, the lab, the investigation” to support their conclusions.