Grenadian nationals and friends living in New York and other nearby States came out in large numbers on Sunday (March 7) at the Medgar Evers Auditorium, Brooklyn, New York to hear Prime Minister Keith Mitchell and his delegation, which included Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade Elvin Nimrod and Minister of State in the Office of the Prime Minister Senator Einstein Louison, address national issues. The meeting was chaired by Ambassador Lamuel Stanislaus, Grenada’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, who received special commendation from Minister Nimrod. Minister Nimrod called Ambassador a hero and thanked him for his contribution to the Country. The crowd showed their appreciation to Ambassador Stanislaus by giving him a standing ovation. Senator Louison said that as part of the investment promotion thrust of Government, a delegation, which included President of the Grenada Chamber of Industry and Commerce Christopher De Allie, was in New York to conduct meetings with potential investors. Senator Louison also expressed great pride in seeing Grenadians, particularly during Independence Celebration activities, coming together and “rallying around the flag” in unity and encouraged nationals to continue in this new spirit of togetherness. Minister Nimrod spoke about the Government’s outreach initiatives with the various social partners, including the Opposition, to develop programmes for the enhancement and development of all citizens. Minister Nimrod highlighted some development projects in Carriacou and Petit Martinique, and informed of upcoming projects such as the Lauriston Airport Development, the modern sporting and cultural center in Lauriston, the renovation of the Dover and Harvey Vale schools, the rebuilding of the Hillsborough Secondary School, as well as a Day Care Center to assist working mothers. Prime Minister Mitchell told the capacity-filled auditorium that relative peace and calm thrive when there is true democracy, and in order to have true democracy, a viable and strong opposition is paramount. He said the people have spoken, his Government has listened and it is time for citizens come together to work for the betterment of Grenada. Prime Minister Mitchell said it is important for people to be involved in decision-making and to this end the Government would initiate the formation of a Citizens Complaint Authority, a national Commission to name Sites and Monuments and the passing of an Integrity Legislation and a Professional Service Act. The Prime Minister Mitchell also provided an update on preparation for the hosting of World Cup 2007, an opportunity to showcase Grenada and what it has to offer on a large scale. Those in attendance commended the Prime Minister and his delegation for the positive tone of their presentation and were very satisfied with the uplifting themes that resonated. Other Government officials present were Ambassador Denis Antoine, Grenada’s Ambassador to the United States, and Ms. Janice Celestine, Consul General of Grenada in New York.