March 6th, 2010 Hon. Tillman Thomas Prime Minister Prime Minister’s Ministry Ministerial Complex St. George’s Hon. Prime Minister, Permit me to offer my compliments and best wishes for 2010 and to clarify that I write in my individual and personal capacity. Again, Sir, in response your declarations and challenges, that citizens too must play an active role in the governance of this country, I take this opportunity to address you on a number of DISAGREEABLE matters. I am coming to the dismal conclusion that many of those charged with the responsibility of minding the people’s business either do not understand or do not care while many others who should be exercising professional judgment prefer to be guided by self interest rather sound professional values. “Heavy is the head that wears the crown” and should anything go horribly wrong you, Sir, as the one “wearing the crown” will be the one ultimately accountable and responsible. That is why I have therefore decided to address these matters directly to you. 1. Brizan/ Perservance Road Works: Hon. Prime Minister, in spite of the disaster which occurred in November 2009, it would seem that we did not learn from this COSTLY experience/event and it seems to be business as usual. Since these works have commenced, whatever time of day I have passed on that location, I have never seen anyone who appears to be an ENGINEER or a SUPERVISOR. And given the magnitude of that project, it also seems to be SIGNIFICANTLY UNDER STAFFED and UNDER EQUIPPED. It now seems like “works without end”, somewhat reminiscent of how road works were conducted under the NNP administration. It defies logic that significant resources have been spent to blast solid rock out of existence on the top side of the road, apparently without any thought as to what will be left to ensure the stability of the top side. Are we then going to require another multi-million dollar project to stabilize the hill and deal with the rock fall hazards that has been/will be caused by that project. I also note that at least two houses have now found themselves precariously perched on the edge of the road because of the cutting into the sides. The sea side of the road is unstable and even before the project commenced, there was subsidence and slippage. I was appalled when I understood that it was a stable part of the road which collapsed in late November as a result of the rock blast. So it would seem that we are spending millions of dollars to create and exacerbate instability. The conduct of these works, Hon. Prime Minister, is mind boggling. After all, the Hon. Minister of Works is known as a trained and capable engineer. What has happened to the technocrats in the Ministry of Communications and Works who should be overseeing these works? I am also astounded that I have not heard the voice of the Grenada Institute of Professional Engineers. I have heard the cynical view being advanced that, in Grenada, persons do not want to incur the wrath of any influential person and find themselves excluded from the possibility of being awarded lucrative contracts!!?? When I “ranted” about the situation to an engineer, this engineer facetiously advised me not worry since “engineers can create miracles”. The Brizan/Perserverance works, Hon. Prime Minister, is indeed a miracle , one of the type that we do not need, do not appreciate and can ill afford!! The conduct of these works, Hon. Prime Minister begs the following questions: * What research and feasibility was undertaken in respect of these works? * Who was responsible for design? * How was the contract awarded? * What qualifications and experience does the present contractor have in executing works of this magnitude? * What oversight and regulatory mechanisms are in place? * What is the cost of these works? Within what time frame was it expected to be completed? * Given the collapse of the road in November, what is the revised time frame and costs? * What is the role of the Ministry of Communications and Works? Hon. Prime Minister, the conduct of these works seems to suggest that we need to do something before something ”do us” 2. Drought: Following the difficulties experienced in Carriacou, the entire country is now experiencing drought. It is distressing how the once verdant areas of the Islander Hill and Fort George which characterized our picturesque and quaint city on a hill now looks like tinder box. Permit me to comment, Hon. Prime Minister, that I find it difficult to understand how one could embark on a programme of artificial insemination and making Carriacou the centre of excellence for livestock in Grenada ( a reputation that Carriacou once enjoyed ) and within SIX months or less, one could be recommending to persons to get rid of their livestock in response to the severe drought. Where was the planning and technical advice? Or was this a case of a Minister “doing his own thing”? Permit me, Hon. Prime Minister, to offer the following perspective on the drought situation. While it is a fact, that in 2009 we did not experience much rainfall, THE BIGGER PROBLEM, Hon. Prime Minister, is unregulated and ill-advised physical development. As a result, during periods of heavy rainfall, there is heavy run-off and flooding. The ground water is not replenished by the processes of filtration and percolation. Our water authority continues to harvest water without any thought to production capacity while we continue to destroy our watersheds in the name of progress and development. It is interesting that NAWASA has said that the situation is exacerbated on the East coast from St. George’s in the South to the North. This is the windward side of the island which normally should be wetter. It is also interesting to note that on the East Coast, all sorts of “developments” have been hacking down large tracts of vegetation without any regard. What effect has this had on the water table on the east coast? Is there any relationship between the large scale destruction of vegetation and the exacerbated drought as compared with the situation on the west coast? It would also be very interesting to find out what are the water requirements of these “developments” and from where are they getting their supply? For example, most of the newspapers have recently carried a news item about the Port Louis Camper and Nicholsons’ marina playing its part in water conservation. Among the measures reported was asking persons to avoid washing down their boats. The question that should have been answered by a credible Environmental Impact Assessment is what would be Camper and Nicholsons’ requirement for water and what would be NAWASA’s capacity to meet this demand. As part of the approval process, what provisions would the marina have been required to put in place to facilitate its operations? Consider the Sogecoa International Hotel and Restaurant, located in Woodlands on an AQUIFER from which NAWASA distributes water to the South. How in the world was this (Chinese) company permitted to build on this area, much less build a hotel and restaurant??!! What happened to our planning authorities? What happened to our water authority? Are we going to permit a (Chinese) company to VIOLATE our water resources because we received/have been promised aid by the government of the People’s Republic of China? Is this part of a “pay back package” for the National Stadium, for the fireworks that political parties got for the election campaign from whatever friendly sources and for promises of more aid ? I have noted, Hon. Prime Minister, that this company has put up a bill board on the Grand Anse roundabout with a picture of the Sogecoa International Hotel and Restaurant. I also notice that an opening from the main road side has been cleared to prominently display the sign on the building, Sogecoa Hotel? Did this operation get permission to build and operate a hotel in that area? I trust, Hon. Prime Minister, that this matter will be put to rest once and for all and will not create any embarrassments, diplomatic or otherwise, for any party. The current drought is starkly reminding us that we need to GOOD stewards of our water sources. The Woodlands aquifer is one of those sources with which we in Grenada have been blessed and it needs to be respected and protected. 3. Disaster Mitigation and Preparedness: Hon. Prime Minister, I offer the following comments and observations to you both in your capacity as Prime Minister and as Chair of the National Disaster Management Agency (NaDMA). The severe drought and the accompanying bush fires have caused severe land degradation and the death of a great many trees. Already in some places, land slides are being experienced. Trees have fallen. It is a catastrophe waiting to happen when the rains begin. Hon. Prime Minister that there needs to be a PROACTIVE approach. As our elders would say “ we need to take in front before in front take us!!” I suggest, Sir, that there needs to be a well co-ordinated effort throughout the country assessing the vulnerabilities and risks, recommending and leading the execution of mitigating actions to reduce the threats to life, limb and property. As the elders reminded us – “A stitch in time saves nine!” In this regard, I want to suggest, Sir, that there needs to a complete turn around in how the Ministry of Communication and Works conducts traditional de-bushing and road works programme – WITH ABSOLUTE DISREGARD for trees and for soil conservation practices. 4. Diplomatic Passports and Ambassadors: 4.1. Ambassadors: Hon. Prime Minister, permit me to address you another vexing matter – the question of diplomatic passports and ambassadors. I sought clarification from you almost one year ago on the matter of Ambassadors Georges Cohen, Ambassador to the United Nations Office in Geneva and Ambassdor Earleen Taylor, Ambassador-at-Large. Based on information obtained via Internet search, it would seem that these individuals continue to have diplomatic status. Perhaps you could advise, Sir, on the following: (i) ON WHAT BASIS has your government chosen these individuals to be Ambassadors? (ii) What diplomatic privileges are they enjoying and HOW are they using these privileges? (iii) WHAT is Grenada getting in turn for the privileges enjoyed by these Ambassadors? I also noted that the site of the United Nations Office in Geneva STILL carries the names of Ministers of the former New National Party administration, Hon. Claris Charles and Hon. Ann Antoine. This Hon. Prime Minister, is UNACCEPTABLE. In fact, it is DOWNRIGHT DISRESPECTFUL to your administration. WHO is responsible for ensuring that the information on these websites is updated? I have noted that the following were made Ambassadors during the tenure of the NNP administration: o Ambassador Ronald Chougary – Grenada’s representative to UNESCO since 1998 o Michael Melnicke – Ambassador to the United States Perhaps you could also advise, Hon. Prime Minister, whether these individuals continue to be Ambassadors. If they continue to be Grenada’s Ambassadors, the same queries in respect of Ambassadors Cohen and Earleen Taylor apply. 4.2 Diplomatic Passports: It is amazing that there was a furore not so long ago in respect of a diplomatic passport incident involving the wife of the Hon. Leader of the Opposition - well over one year and a half since there was a change of administration! I trust that, following this incident, your administration has finally resolved the issue of the ABUSE of diplomatic passports by all those who are no longer authorized to carry them. Even more importantly, I trust that EFFECTIVE action has been taken to address the abuse of our diplomatic passports by all those questionable and disreputable persons TO WHOM OUR PASSPORTS WERE SOLD with the blessings of the New National Party regime. 5. Protection and Restoration of the People’s Property: I am concerned, Sir, about the ALIENATION of the PEOPLE’S PROPERTY: * Grand Anse Beach – land that was given to Time Bourke Holdings ny the New National Party regime – is it really that your administration’s hands are tied in this matter or is it that certain members of your administration are hell-bent on delivering what the Keith Mitchell-led administration signed away. Is that “special committee” still chasing after Lewis Hamilton to get him involved in a deal in which he is no longer interested? Was Mr. Hamilton ever interested or was his name used conveniently? * Mt. Hartman-Hog Island: I acknowledge that your administration, Hon. Prime Minister, has kept its election commitment to repeal the infamous amendment to the National Parks and Protected Areas Act, which facilitated the sale of national parks lands to private developers. But what is the point, Sir, of repealing the amendment if the people’s property, Mt. Hartman and Hog Island is NOT restored to the OWNERSHIP and USE of we the people. May I remind you , Hon. Prime Minister, that two entities, the World Bank and Rare Conservation, had resources already committed to implement community tourism projects which would have supported the development of livelihoods in that area as well as encourage research into the Grenada Dove. It is about time, Hon. Prime Minister, that Grenada develops its very own Grenada Dove experts. THERE ARE OPTIONS, Sir. But, your administration, like the NNP regime which preceded it, appears intent on treading the same path. * Levera, Sandy Island and Sugar Loaf Island: These are areas that were identified as areas to be designated as part of the National Parks and Protected Areas Systems. I am aware that certain of these areas are privately owned but there are mechanisms open to the state to regulate the USE to which these areas are put. The proposed Levera Resort development will alienate 400 acres of property including property which should be protected for future generations. It will also endanger nesting ground of the critically endangered species, the leather back turtle which is an important natural and economic resource. Turtle watching is one of the attractions now offered to both locals and visitors alike. * Supporting Livelihoods and Job Creation: THERE ARE OPTIONS, Sir, in the exploitation of these natural resources – areas to be designated/designated park areas - that would enhance these areas, supporting and creating livelihoods opportunities for persons without COMPROMISNG the resource and alienating it from the ownership of ‘we the people”. The issue is whether or not our policy and decision makers are interested and have the will to take a different path. To date, the actions and/or inaction on the part of your administration can only lead we the people to conclude that your administration IN IS NOT INTERESTED IN THE RESTORATION AND PROTECTING THE PEOPLE’S PROPERTY. 6. Multi Lateral Conventions on the Environment and Livelihoods: Hon. Prime Minister, Grenada is a signatory to several multi-lateral conventions in respect of the protection of the environment. Among these are: the United Nations Convention on Biodiversity, United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification and the United Nations Framework on Climate Change. As a party to all of these conventions, Grenada is also eligible to access FINANCIAL RESOURCES based on a national plan which would enable Grenada to meet its commitments as a party to the convention. A key concern of all of these conventions is also the availability of resources to develop the party’s human resource capacity and support the development of community livelihoods. Our ministers, consultants and technocrats are constantly flying out to international capitals attending meetings in respect of these conventions. The question is one of ACCOUNTABILITY, Hon. Prime Minister. What is our participation in these events DELIVERING to the country that is IMPROVING the life and livelihoods of “we the people”?. Consider the fact that we have been a signatory to the UN Convention to Combat Desertification since 2001. Consider the drought situation that Grenada is experiencing currently - exactly the kind of situation that the convention was designed to prevent/ameliorate. As leader of the delegation to the last Climate Change Summit in Copanhagen, I trust that you, Sir, will demand accountability in respect of our participation in the various international meetings and our obligations under the Climate Change Convention. What should it be delivering to Grenada, to the constituents who voted your team into office? What has it delivered to date? I respectfully submit, Hon. Prime Minister, that Grenada can/should be making much more use of the facilities offered by these conventions to help stimulate our economy in the pursuit of sustainable development. This may mean that there is need to increase the capacity of our project units to assist in facilitating the identification and writing of project proposals as well as improving project implementation. The question is, Sir, are we really committed to environment and sustainable development or like the New National Party before, are they just convenient buzz words? Permit me the opportunity to also offer my queries and observations on the following: 7. Re-location of Parliament to Mt. Wheldale: We the people have been advised that Parliament will be re-located to Mt. Whedale. It seems to me, Hon. Prime Minister, that the location of Parliament, the PEOPLE’S HOUSE, should be a location which is accessible and accommodating to “we the people”. Mt. Wheldale is one of St. George’s treasures. Perhaps I am not well acquainted with the area being considered. However, it seems to me that it is not a very accessible area and parking is also limited. In my considered opinion, it is not a suitable site for the relocation of Parliament. Indeed, I propose, Sir, that the government re-acquires the people’s property, Islander Hill, and that we re-locate Parliament building there. Majestic and befitting!! It can also become an attraction. (Never mind the Camper and Nicholson sewage storage tanks at the bottom of the hill. We will get around that! Engineers can work miracles?!) 8. Memorandum of Understanding, GoG - Urbanzia Corporation: I congratulate your administration, Hon. Prime Minister, for making this memorandum public. It is posted on the websites of the Government of Grenada and Grenada Broadcast. I trust that we the people will be privy to the studies which have informed this memorandum and that we will be afforded an opportunity to offer our input. I trust there will be wide public presentations and discussions in Carriacou and Petite Martinique. My immediate reactions, Hon, Prime Minister, are as follows: (i) I am concerned because, on the Internet, I have been unable to find any reference to this corporation other than the very Memorandum of Understanding signed with the Government of Grenada. What does your government know of the track record of this company with which it has entered into an agreement? (ii) It seems to me that the commitments under this Memorandum of Understanding are in direct conflict with certain policy directions enunciated in the 2010 Budget Speech or initiatives currently underway? * Through support from The Nature Conservancy, initiatives are well advanced to declare three Marine Protected Areas in Carriacou. This is in keeping with Grenada’s obligations under the Convention on Biodiversity and the grand declarations made in Brazil by the then Minister or Environment, Hon. Ann Antoine, to declare protected areas of 25 percent of Grenada’s land and sea area (even as her government was amending the National Parks and Protected Areas Act to convey Grenada’s dove sanctuary to private speculators). Marine Park Areas would of course support a dive sector but locals must be trained and certified in order to be able to maximize the benefits to be obtained from THEIR resource or they (the OWNERS) will continue to be MARGINALIZED. * This Memorandum of Understanding seems to be direct conflict to commitments made in the 2010 Budget Speech to develop yachting and to make Grenada the dive capital of the Eastern Caribbean. Given Carriacou’s natural and social assets, it seems rational these two sub-sectors would be significant in the economy of Carriacou: Carriacou is an Amerindian word which means “lands of many reefs”. It stands to reason then that the dive sector would be significant and has potential for further development. Given Carriacou’s marine culture, its regattas and its location in the Grenadine chain, yachting is already a significant part of the Carriacou economy. How then does a cruise ship terminal and a container port fit into this mix? Carriacou after all is only 13 square miles. (iii) How is it that Grenada is signing a binding Memorandum of Understanding without the benefit of the required studies including the Environmental and Social Impact Assessments? (iv) What is the role of attorney-at-law, Mr. Anslem Clouden? Does he represent the Corporation? Carriacou? the Government of Grenada? Or is he speaking in an independent and individual capacity? I trust that both himself and the representatives of the Government of Grenada are aware of something called CONFLICT OF INTEREST. (v) It seems that once again, a government is bent on alienating a significant area of the PEOPLE’s ASSETS to an obsure developer/group of developers for the promise of ill defined gains. Are you Hon. Prime Minister, aware that free zones are really SWEAT SHOPS? Is that truly the best approach/path of development for Carriacou and Petite Martinique? I look forward to further information on this proposed initiative and I look forward to an opportunity for we the people, particularly the people of Carriacou and Petite Martinique, to offer further comment and input to aid your administration in arriving at the BEST DECISION in the interest of we the people, in respect of this initiative. 9. Expectations of We the People: Your administration, Hon. Prime Minister, was voted into office on the platform of change, “Restoring Integrity, Renewing Hope and Building Together”. As your administration nears its second year in office, the question that will be asked is – has your administration begun to deliver the change it promised? Notwithstanding the situation it inherited and the global recession, is it committed to doing things differently? Why then does it seem to be treading the same economic path that was beaten by the New National Party? Why is the interests of foreign speculators taking precedence over the interests of we the people? We the people have noted that the business of the party and of government continues to be “on the ground”. Rumours abound and speculation is rife about conflict, infighting and cliques in the government and party – second cabinets, “gang of four”, a comatose political party etc. etc. etc. We the people are dismayed, disappointed and even disgusted. The people wonder why is it that their representatives seem to be no longer ACCESSIBLE, why is it that these representatives no longer seem to have time to GROUND with the people who placed them in office, no longer offer them a space so that they can articulate their ideas and offer solutions to the problems that they the people face. Our political leaders ought to be reminded, Sir, of the reason that they were voted into office – they offered themselves in the SERVICE of we the people with a promise to RESTORE integrity and RENEW hope. In closing, permit me Hon. Prime Minister, to congratulate the firm stand that you have taken against the introduction of casino gambling in Grenada. You have publicly and firmly stated, “I will not be part of a Cabinet that conspires against the best interest of the people!” Such a declaration, Hon. Prime Minister reminds we the people why we placed our faith in and our “X” for a National Democratic Congress led by you. During the tenure of the New National Party, a popular radio talk show host often described Grenada as “going to hell in a hand basket”. You and your party, Hon. Prime Minister were voted into office so that “basket” could “haul and pull up”. Notwithstanding the challenging economic and social realities that Grenada is confronting, it the duty of the team led by you, Hon. Prime Minister TO INSPIRE confidence and hope in those who have placed much faith in your party, YES WE CAN!! Let it not be said Hon. Prime Minister that, under your watch, “the hand basket was safely delivered to hell and to the Devil himself”!! Once again, I thank you, Hon. Prime Minister for the opportunity to offer these queries and observations. Please receive, Sir, my assurances of highest regard and esteem. Respectfully yours, Sandra C.A. Ferguson (The content of the above article reflects the views/opinions of the writer and not necessarily those of the Grenadian Connection staff)