Antigua/Barbuda Tourism Department Assist counterparts in Grenada

St. George’s, Grenada - 14th September... Minister of State within the Ministry of Tourism, the Hon. Hilson Baptiste yesterday (Mon) paid a visit to Grenada to hand-over relief supplies to the islands’ Tourism Officials as a gesture of good-will between the Ministry of Tourism Antigua and Barbuda and the Ministry of Tourism in Grenada.

The supplies were issued to the Hon. Brenda Hood, Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation and Culture, and Mr. Richard Strachan, Chairman of the Grenada Tourist Board.

Both expressed heartfelt thanks to the Minister for the much-needed supplies, which consisted of water, flashlights, batteries, food supplies, and storage devices.

Mr. Strachan noted that most workers within the Ministry were greatly affected and therefore have not been back on the job since September 7th. Minister Hood says that the supplies will go a long way towards getting the workers back on their feet.

It is not yet known exactly when the tourist industry in Grenada will return to a state of normalcy, as extensive damage has been done to all major hotels, and the yacht club. Since the passage of Hurricane Ivan, all tourists have left the island with the aid of tourist officials and hotel operators.

One Tourism Official says that already tour operators have discontinued marketing of Grenada until January of next year when they will analyze the sector and progress being made towards revitalization.

While in Grenada Minister Baptiste took the opportunity to witness firsthand, the extent of damages caused by Hurricane Ivan as it took its course through Grenada last week. A tour was organized by the Grenada Tourist Office that took the Minister through the central tourist center of Grand Anse.

Minister Baptiste was deeply touched at the extent of devastation not only to the tourism sector, but to the island as a whole. 90% of homes have been destroyed and residents are seeking shelter in hotel rooms that have little or no damage. This courtesy has been extended by hoteliers.

According to the Hon. Minister, "It is in times like these that the Caribbean Community needs to pull together and place its strength towards the rebuilding of one of its member states."

This he says will be the way forward, as CARICOM heads meet to discuss the plight of Grenada.

Minister Baptiste returned to the island last evening. (End)