The Government of Grenada has signalled its intention to have both Houses of Parliament consider the revocation of Carnival Monday and Tuesday as national holidays this year.
A bill has been drafted that is expected to be brought before the House of Representatives when it meets next week Wednesday, 29 July from 9 am. It will then be taken to Senate, and is expected to then be passed into law. Carnival Monday and Tuesday are mentioned in the Bank Holidays Act, and as such, this legislative process must be followed.
During an interview on Wednesday morning, Prime Minister, Dr Rt. Hon. Keith Mitchell, said with Covid-19 already impacting economic activity, government is keen to see the nation return to full productivity.
Dr Mitchell said, “Businesses have suffered over this period of time, and government itself has experienced a significant reduction in revenue. Therefore, with the cancellation of carnival this year, which negates the need for the traditional holidays, the prudent thing to do is to use those days productively. Government’s intention here, is not to disregard the importance of culture, but against the backdrop of our individual and collective losses in this pandemic, we must now seek to capitalise on every opportunity to revitalise the economy.”
Dr Mitchell made it clear however, that Emancipation Day, Monday, 3 August, remains a national holiday.
GIS
The Prime minister has made a wiise decision!
I can’t imagine anyone will want to have carnival on top of what is going on. This is serious time to take an introspect of our lives. We really need Jesus! We have become so carnal minded that we rather jeopardized our health for nonsense! You have so much money to party, take that same money and distribute food baskets to those who are less fortunate…. Let us be wise and harmless like a dove. Let us think before we write!
THE BEST NEWS SO FAR. No Carnival. Start thinking right. REFLECT.
Take the whip out slavery is on its way more money 4 the wicked.
Double pay 4 the workers since we have no choice of our own freedom.
Of you people vote 4 th8s government ever again you will hve no life no hood future only the few will benefit will be out siders which are none grenadians .
Who will pay to lock off your freedom.
So good luck to you all
The will of the people should prevail. Government should not revoke an Act such as the Public Holidays Act without consultation. If there is a concern about public gatherings this will not stop it and holidays stimulate spending. Tourism businesses could use the holidays as an opportunity
I have to agree with the government on this decision as it is the best way forward during this difficult period which is affecting everyone.