GRENADA WEEKLY ACTIVITY REPORT FOR JANUARY 18 - 24

UNCLAS GRENADA 000006 SIPDIS E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: ELAB SOCI KCRM PREL GJ SUBJECT: GRENADA WEEKLY ACTIVITY REPORT FOR JANUARY 18 - 24 ¶1. Embassy Grenada's weekly report (GWAR) provides a little detail about events of interest that do not merit longer reporting at this time. ¶2. Begin GWAR text: a. PM Thomas Meets with Trades Union Council Prime Minister Tillman Thomas and Finance Minister Nazim Burke discussed the current global economic crisis with member unions of the Grenada Trades Union Council (TUC) and its possible impact on Grenada. The Prime Minister noted that the government is willing to engage all stake holders to find solutions and to position the country to benefit when the global economy recovers. He said the government was also concerned that any disruption and/or industrial action at this time will add to the already difficult financial situation. TUC President said that the trade union movement is willing to provide recommendations to government that they believe will help cushion the fallout. Over 50 percent of Grenada's labor force is unionized. b. Prime Minister says `NO' to casino gambling Prime Minister Thomas made clear to local press that casino gambling in Grenada will not get his blessing. He pointed out the negative impact that casino gambling would have on the moral and social fabric of the country although Thomas said he would let the people decide democratically. During the current economic crisis, Grenadians must not be encouraged to squander what little they have on gambling. Zublin Grenada, a Dutch company with holdings in Grenada, has been trying to acquire a casino license in Grenada. Unsuccessful with the previous government, the company reapplied following the July 2008 election, hoping the new government would be more willing. The re-application has triggered renewed discussion among church groups, government and civil society. c. Portuguese Ambassador Presents Credentials The new Portuguese Ambassador-Designate to Grenada, His Excellency Joao Catano de Silva last week presented his credentials to Grenada's Governor-General His Excellency Carlyle Glean. The two countries have had diplomatic relations since ¶1976. The Ambassador, resident in Caracas, will shortly identify someone to be Portugal's honorary consul in Grenada. MCISAAC