The Grenada Chamber of Industry and Commerce (GCIC) on Wednesday, 12 November, called on the Grenada Ports Authority (GPA) and workers’ representatives to enter time-bound, mediated negotiations to resolve the ongoing industrial impasse and safeguard the national interest.
“The port is Grenada’s economic heartbeat. Every day of disruption compounds costs for households, businesses, and essential services,” said the President of GCIC. “We are asking all parties to pause disruptive action, return to the table with an agreed mediator, and establish a 48–72 hour pathway to a fair, durable resolution.” GCIC notes that the timing magnifies the impact: the pre-Christmas import period is underway; perishable goods, pharmaceuticals, and construction materials are in transit; and tourism operators are executing high-season logistics. Prolonged disruption risks price pressures, supply shortages, project delays, and income losses across the economy.
GCIC’s immediate recommendations:
- Agree on a temporary standstill on disruptive actions while talks proceed in good faith
- Appoint a mutually acceptable mediator (e.g., via the Ministry of Labour) and commit to continuous bargaining until a framework deal is reached
- Publish a joint update within 72 hours outlining progress and next steps to reassure the public and the private sector
GCIC stands ready to facilitate dialogue, provide neutral data on supply-chain impacts, and host multistakeholder sessions to accelerate clarity and consensus. “There are no winners when national welfare is at stake. A solution grounded in fairness, respect, and clarity is in everyone’s interest,” the President added.
GCIC
This request strikes me as a commonsense approach