Message from Grenada ’ s Prime Minister
Fellow Grenadians and Friends of Grenada ,
On behalf of the Government and People of our Tri- Island State , I extend warmest greetings to each of you reading this message from the Spice Isle — the Culinary Capital of the Caribbean , Grenada .
These greetings and salutations are extended to the People and Government of Quebec , and of Canada in general , and to all Grenadians in Montreal , in particular . It is my distinct honour and pleasure to reach out to you as we celebrate the first anniversary of our Government in Grenada , and as you , the Spice Isle Cultural Day Association in Quebec ( SICDAQ ), celebrate the 6th anniversary of this festival , under the theme , “ Grenada to the World ”.
I take this opportunity to assure you of our Government ’ s commitment to the prioritisation of culture as an essential engine of growth . The development of the creative economy is at the forefront of this administration ’ s transformational thrust , which provides increasing opportunities and spin-offs in a myriad of cultural expressions and in the creative arts .
Your organisation , SICDAQ , plays a vital role in highlighting , promoting , and safeguarding our unique cultural heritage in the Diaspora — establishing a focal point for the Grenadian community , enhancing marketing opportunities for local businesses , and boosting tourism , among other valuable advantages .
Grenada continues to share a strong bond with the Government and People of Canada , rooted in mutual respect , cooperation , and shared values . Our Government intends to strengthen this relationship through the exploration of new avenues for
collaboration and increased engagement with our vibrant community of Grenadian-Canadians who have made significant contributions to both nations through their hard work , talent , and resilience .
It is fitting , as we celebrate this Spice Island Festival in Montreal , that we recognise Dr . Jean Augustine P . C ., C . M ., O . Ont ., C . B . E ., a trailblazing Grenadian in Canada , who is a model , outstanding educator , community organiser , and the first black woman to be elected to the House of Commons and to serve in the Federal Cabinet of Canada . Dr . Augustine is a shining example of the best of Grenada in our Diaspora and an inspiration to us all .
In closing , I express sincere gratitude to the Government and people of Quebec , and by extension , Canada , for the kind courtesies extended to the Spice Isle Cultural Day Association to facilitate the planning and hosting of this wonderful annual festival . Please know that although I cannot physically join you in celebrating Spice Isle Cultural Day this year , I look forward to having this opportunity in the near future . I wish you a safe , festive and productive celebration , as we each do our part — individually and collectively , at home and in the Diaspora — to move our beloved Grenada , Carriacou and Petite Martinique forward !
With best wishes ,
Honourable Dickon Mitchell PRIME MINISTER OF GRENADA
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