In light of the news of our first positive case of Covid-19 which we knew was inevitable, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) notes with deep concern, government’s lack of serious leadership in handling the pandemic as it hits home here in Grenada.
With this announcement, Grenada is now at Level 2 in the pandemic phase. As such, among other things, our authorities must ensure that we promote beneficial and preventative behaviour among the population. We must do all in our power to prevent an escalation of the virus. Therefore, there needs to be strict adherence to the guidelines and protocols by all Grenadians, including the government, who must lead by example.
One of the most critical protocols that must be adhered to, and that is being urged by the government, is that of social distancing. In our view, it is impossible for the nation to adhere to this very critical protocol if workplaces, including government offices, remain open and public transportation continues to operate. It is well known that the majority of workers in Grenada rely on public transportation to get to and from work and given the type of transportation. It is impossible for people using it to observe the social distancing protocol on buses plying the various routes around the island. As for enclosed airconditioned offices and other workspaces, it will also be near impossible to observe the social distancing protocol.
In this regard, NDC calls for closure of workplaces and public transportation systems for 14 days in the first instance. These closures will not include medical and healthcare workers, essential services personnel, security services and certain state services such as immigration, disaster, meteorological and sanitation services. We recommend that employers should provide sanitised transportation for workers falling in the categories mentioned. We note that provision was made of support for bus and taxi drivers in the relief package announced by the Prime Minister last Friday but without specifics. We are also aware that much of these monetary measures will need parliamentary approval and are therefore not cast in stone.
The NDC also urges the government to take all necessary steps to suspend the British Airways flight scheduled to land here on Wednesday, 25 March 2020. We note that while yesterday, the Minister of Health confirmed that there may be nationals on the flight returning home to “ride out the storm” the CMO this morning said otherwise, that the flight is expected to land empty. The 2 cannot be correct and we call on government to act in such a manner that the public can have trust and confidence in its pronouncements during this crisis. Government’s own announcement that the MBIA is now closed makes them accountable for their actions in protecting and safeguarding the health and wellbeing of citizens. Any associated cancellation fees payable by government (and there should be none) will be a small price to pay to safeguard the lives of our people.
NDC urges the people of Grenada that while you remain calm and not panic, continue to observe all of the guidelines and protocols issued. In this crisis, remaining healthy and safe depends primarily on each individual acting responsibly.
Social distancing is what is going to flatten the curve of this deadly disease yet grocery stores in the town of st. George is only open on Saturday’s one day?!?! One day where you are sure to have hundreds of people in huge crowds and line ups?!?! Does that make sense? Do better it was even better to have stores open 3 days a week with reduced hours!!!!! This is ridiculous to subject Grenadians to greater risk by limiting stores to only one day!!!!
The elected government is doing an excellent and very proactive job in protecting our island and people during this Pandemic. People need to act responsibly and observe social distancing but that is not reflective of Governments response to the Nation which is stellar. If you need to make one recommendation make it but don’t disregard the excellent response on all other matters.
James you are a fool of biblical dimensions. This is not political it is about saving lives, idiot. The government should have shut do the country since last week. Also, where is our oil and gas patrominy to help business, the economy and the health sector … fool
Come on Grenadians we need to put out political differences aside at this time. Stop our nonsense. I am not politically involve with this party I have family in politics in the ruling party, but at the same time I refuse to accept the bullshit that they are trying… putting us Grenadian at risk… we have nothing, our helt system, I refuse to even speak of.
Yhe US are far better off than us and look at the toll this virus is taking on the and others like Italy and the UK.. it’s time we get serious and stop the nonsense and think put our people first..
Remember it’s not about NNP or NDC it’s all about us Grenadian.
Not wanting this virus to further spread in this our little island.
Typical Democratic Party in that they have NOTHING of consequence to bring to the problem so they criticize instead. Our elected PM is doing his job and doing it quite well.
It seems that many people are still not take their responsibility seriously as regards to social distancing and self isolation. We really should start learning from watching this disaster unfold in other countries around the world. We have an opportunity to do the right thing here. Come on Grenadians we are better than this!!
The Government has given us the heads up…run with it!!
I’m reading this article from the UK, please protect the people of Grenada and don’t let any flights into the country from the UK. Things in the UK is getting from bad to worse these people are so selfish they don’t care whom they pass on the virus to. God willing you all will be healthy and safe, in my prayers.