St. George’s, December 15, 2011 – The Canadian Government has been thanked for its contribution to educational and economic development in Grenada and other Caribbean countries. Grenada’s Labour and Social Security Minister, Hon. Glynis Roberts, has singled out regional assistance through the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA), and employment provided under the Canadian Caribbean Seasonal Agricultural Farm Workers’ Programme. Money earned by farm workers visiting Canada is reinvested and forms part of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of Caribbean nations, Minister Roberts said at a recent meeting in Niagara, Canada. “Many schools and other public facilities were constructed with support from CIDA,’’ the Labour Minister said. “Investment in education and training is the best investment that can be undertaken. And I want to convey the gratitude of the Caribbean and, in particular, my own country, Grenada, to the government and people of Canada for their support in our development.’’ The Niagara meeting brought together Canadian officials and representatives of Caribbean countries participating in the Farm Workers’ Programme. A similar meeting was held in Grenada in 2010. “The government of Grenada views the programme as part of its social and economic development and as an avenue which creates much-needed employment for our people,’’ Mrs. Roberts said. She expressed interest in seeing a smooth functioning of the programme, promising more rigorous screening of workers applying for employment on Canadian farms. The Minister suggested that consideration be given for possible opportunities under the programme for employing female farmers. “I want to place on record our appreciation for the programme,’’ said Labour Minister Roberts, “and to pledge the commitment of Grenada to continue working with our Canadian colleagues to ensure the continuance of the programme.’’ Employment generated through the programme, which was established in 1976, has “impacted positively’’ on the living standards of farm workers and their families, and has benefitted the country, Mrs. Roberts said. “Their earnings are paying for the education of their children, paying for their homes and, in many cases, allowing them to establish small businesses,’’ said the Minister. “The remittances sent back to Grenada to their families while they are on the farms have not only met the needs of their families,’’ she added, “but have contributed to the foreign exchange earnings and GDP of the country.’’ According to Minister Roberts, “remittances represent a significant percentage of our GDP. This situation is not unique to Grenada but is a Caribbean phenomenon.’’