INSIDE GRENADA SATURDAY December 22, 2007 from the New National Party (NNP) As we celebrate another year of fruitful accomplishments through the Grace of God and the hard work and commitment of a caring Government and a resilient People, it is timely that we concisely recap some of these accomplishments. The New National Party (NNP) is appreciative for all the support in taking us this far on our mission of sustained progress. Adhering to our budgeted plan and mindful of the economic reform programme, we were able to: (a) significantly enhance the growth of our economy; (b) take belt-tightening steps in restoring fiscal and debt sustainability; (c) take precautionary steps in reducing vulnerabilities; and (d) take bold and innovative steps addressing the monumental challenge of poverty alleviation. Government’s subventions, its ever increasing social safety nets that targets the poor and the vulnerable, its ability to attract investment initiatives, its protection and development of our young people, its substantive training and employment initiatives as Government continues to invest in its human capital, its Agriculture Enterprise Development Programme, its global scholarship programmes, and its unprecedented infrastructural development works, is testament of a Government at work. With cost of living a major concern, our distinguished Prime Minister took the initiative to call the regional Bodies together to come up with an action plan to address the global problem. Government has taken action locally as it relates to basic food items. In providing the framework for our ongoing development, Government continues to deliver on the promise of good governance by passing Bills such as: the Public Procurement and contract Administration Act, the Audit Bill, the National Reconstruction Levy, and the Ombudsman Bill. The IMF was encouraged with Grenada’s growth performance. And Standard & Poor’s Ratings Services, as an internationally renowned auditing agency, raised its long-term sovereign credit on Grenada reflecting steps taken by Government to improve debt-payment management. The progress is real as seen in the eyes of the world’s best known critics. This year, thanks to the People’s Republic of China, we have one of the best stadiums in the world. We were able to successfully host Cricket World Cup and welcomed the world to the jewel of the Caribbean. Today, we are reaping the benefits from that exposure. We have also significantly upgraded our sporting facilities in the outer parishes. We are not about to rest on our laurels. We know that there is still a great deal to be done. This Government is in tune with the wishes of the people and blessed with the guiding Spirit and protection of our Creator. Grenada is well positioned and is now realizing significant growth and fruitful social development. This Government continues to encourage Grenadians to take full advantage of the opportunities presented. We identify manufacturing, agriculture, eco-tourism, sports-tourism, the service industry, and education as areas of attractive alternatives. The NNP has a moral obligation to the people of this blessed country who entrust their confidence in good governance…we will not deviate. Grenada, Carriacou and Petite Martinique are our business and we will continue to chart the course to our people’s betterment. This New Year is critical in our self-determination. The onus is on all progressive, caring citizens of this blessed country to come to terms with the reality that in seeking their interest, one must be resolute in their pursuit of such betterment. God is good and as such we shall not fail.