by Linda Straker
- Children at schools are finding it difficult to cope
- Unemployment increased because measures negatively affect many sectors
- Citizens should not become complacent because neighbouring islands are currently dealing with outbreaks
Grenada’s Social Development Ministry has disclosed that many citizens have difficulties coping with the adjustments and side-effects of measures enforced because of the Covid-19 pandemic.
During the weekly post-Cabinet briefings held on Tuesday, 2 February 2021, Delma Thomas noted, “In that period of pandemic, people are finding it difficult to cope… as human beings we, were made to interact. We were made to meet our friends and talk, not cover our face with a mask.” Thomas noted that children at schools are finding it difficult to cope, and therefore they will need our love and our support. She made a plea for Government and communities to work together.
Unemployment has increased because the measures have negatively affected many sectors, including travel, tourism, and the various sub-sectors within the creative or orange economy.
“I urge us, let us work together. Let us soldier on together. Let us be our neighbour’s keeper in this period of pandemic,” Thomas said. Thomas’ ministerial portfolio includes Community Empowerment as well as Community Health and Hospital Services.
Grenada currently has 5 active Covid-19 cases. Thomas reminded citizens that they should not become complacent, because neighbouring islands are currently dealing with outbreaks in which hundreds of persons are receiving positive Covid-19 results. “We have to be vigilant; we have to be smart. We have to do things that will protect ourselves and our family.” Thomas described the public health pandemic as one that is teaching citizens and decision-makers many vital lessons.
Thomas did not elaborate on the lessons learned by the pandemic, but her Permanent Secretary Chrissy Worme-Charles disclosed that since the declaration of the pandemic by the World Health Organisation in February 2020, there has been a greater demand for the services offered by the Social Development Ministry.
“Our challenge did not change; it escalated. There is now a greater demand for our programmes.” Worme-Charles explained the programmes include counselling and financial assistance through its Support for Education Empowerment and Development (SEED) Programme.
Ms. Thomas. Go find the MILLIONS of dollars USD ones in the amount of $55 Million plus another 22 Million that were given, borrowed, to Grenada for Covid assistance to help offset the unemployment caused by the situation. This government is a fraud. NO ONE got enough money to account for the millions given to Grenada. ACCOUNTABILITY is required here and the distribution of the funds to the general public NOT JUST sucking up to foreign hotels.
A small conversation can make a big difference. Just by taking the time to talk and listen to someone may lift their wellbeing. Connecting with the community is vital for wellbeing.
Some people struggle to open up and have honest dialogue about how they are really feeling. Our culture may consider talking about emotions a weakness, however, it takes courage and strength to express and discuss our feelings. Having someone like a trusted friend, or someone you feel comfortable with can make you feel you are not alone. While face to face contact with loved ones has been limited, you can still have conversations with them- whether that be via the telephone or platforms like Skype and Zoom.
Just having a small conversation can offer new insight, an empathetic ear to help sort through issues and release any built up tensions and anxieties. Small honest conversations with compassionate listening can make a huge difference, positively impacting wellbeing.
*This message does not replace professional help. If stress is affecting your daily life, please seek specialist support.
Ending Stigma Grenada Founder – Natalie Simon Best (MA, PgDip, BA, PTLLs)
All well and good they are asking for unity but the government should lead by example and show the citizens of Grenada that they are on they side.
For example since March of last year what steps has our government take to ease the pressure on it’s citizens?
Not one of the ministers have taken a pay cut nor have they freeze any of the increases in Gas price which the government takes a large percentage in taxes .
Please look at the damages you are inflicting on your citizens in the name of covid 19.