ST. GEORGE’S: The ceremonial state opening of the Eighth Parliament of Grenada took place yesterday at the Trade Center in Grand Anse, St. George’s. The ceremony was attended by ordinary Grenadian citizens, students from various secondary schools, business leaders, members from civil society and foreign dignitaries, prominent among them being Dr. Ralph Gonzalves – Prime Minister of neighboring St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The special sitting of Parliament saw both Houses seated together – the Lower House/House of Representatives and the Upper House/ Senate. The members of the new Senate attended to the matter of electing a President and Deputy President to preside over meetings of the Senate. Sen. Joan Purcell was elected and sworn in as the new President while Sen. Chester Humphrey elected and sworn in as the Deputy President. The Lower House elected Mr. George Mc Guire as the new Speaker of the House – replacing Mr. Lawrence Joseph, who held on to this position for a lengthy period under the former New National Party’s administration. Mr. Roland Bhola, from the Opposition side of the House, was elected as the Deputy Speaker. Both gentlemen took their Oath of Office during the ceremony. Amidst the pomp and grandeur, the highlight of yesterday’s opening was the Throne Speech, delivered by Governor General of Grenada, His Excellency Sir Daniel Williams. The Throne Speech encapsulates the Government of Grenada’s plans and programs for the years ahead. Wallace J.A Inside Grenada News