Grenada's Tourist Sector Relatively Unharmed By Emily

by Amanda Banks, Tax-News.com, London

20 July 2005

Although Grenada was hit by hurricane Emily last week, after hurricane Ivan inflicted devastating damage on the island last year, Prime Minister Dr. Keith Mitchell made a reassuring speech and it was confirmed that all hotels and established tourist sites and attractions are undamaged and are functioning as normal. Grenada’s Carnival and the Carriacou Regatta will also be held as planned.

The Point Salines International Airport is open and flights are operating on schedule. Banks, financial institutions, supermarkets, hospitals, pharmacies, and other businesses are also operating normally.

Said Minister of Tourism Senator Brenda Hood: “The resort areas in the southern parts of the country are fully operational, and we will continue to work diligently with Carriacou and Petit Martinique to prepare for the upcoming season. Given the known resilience and positive attitudes of the Grenadian people, we are confident that Grenada’s tourism product will maintain its high quality and character”.

Hurricane Ivan caused over US$ 2.5 billion in damage, but Grenada has received assistance in rebuilding from various countries including China, Chile, Venezuela and a number of Caribbean countries. Last week, after talks between Dr Mitchell and Vice-President H.E. Zeng Qing Hong and Chinese Premier H.E. Wen Jia Bao, but before Emily's impact, China said it would now provide more assistance to help Grenada service its foreign debt as well as funding for technical support. This week, Dr. Timothy Harris, St Kitts and Nevis Minister with responsibility for Foreign Affairs, said that the Federation was ready to offer help to Grenada.

The Prime Minister said that the National Disaster Plan formulated after hurricane Ivan has been very effective in dealing with the results of Emily. “All emergency forces operated with a high level of organization and efficiency. We need to thank them for their efforts,” he said.

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