CAREGORY:CELEBRATION(INDEPENDENCE) -------------------------------------- Inside Grenada Wednesday February 7,2007 FELLOW CITIZENS, it is with delight and humility that I wish you Happy Independence on our country’s thirty-third anniversary. As we commemorate another year as an independent country, it is fitting that we look back. In reflecting on our history, we must recognize those who came before us and championed the cause which has led us to where we are today. Today we give thanks to God for keeping us united as a people focused on the task of nation building. Let us take a moment to reflect upon the heroes in our individual lives; those who gave selflessly; those who lift us when we are down and comfort us when we are sad – our mothers and fathers, our teachers, our grandparents, community and church leaders. Sisters and Brothers, although we have gone through very trying times, formidable challenges still lie before us. However, there has been significant advancement in rebuilding the Nation. Government has spent well over 86 million dollars building and repairing thousands of homes for the most vulnerable families. We have spent close to 82 million dollars rebuilding our schools so that our children can have a comfortable learning environment. Over 60 million dollars has been spent on community centers, health centers and public buildings and 59 million dollars on resuscitating and revitalizing our farms. Therefore we endeavor to expand our social safety nets and develop programmes to bring the best standard of living to all our people. We have also made considerable progress in revising outdated policies and developing new strategies. We can be proud that we now have national policies for agriculture, health, education, youth and an investment policy which is charting the way for Grenada as a preferred location for foreign and local investment. I am pleased to announce that the first working Draft of Grenada’s National Strategic development Plan has been completed. This policy embraces the rich heritage that nurtures community and family values, and guides the way for the continuance of peace, opportunity and an enhanced quality of life. Today, it is with much optimism that we celebrate our 33rd anniversary of Independence. I therefore use this occasion to urge you all to partake in our quest for success as this year promises to be one filled with unprecedented opportunities. May God continue to Bless us All.