Grenada’s borders could open in June if government is satisfied with protocols recommended by stakeholders.
Prime Minister and Minister of Finance and National Security, Dr the Right Honourable Keith Mitchell, made the announcement on Sunday, 10 May 2020, in a national address.
Grenada’s borders were closed in March as part of efforts to curb the spread of Covid-19, which was introduced to the country, by an infected travelled on 16 March.
Dr Mitchell said the reopening of borders was a topic of discussion at recent meetings of Caribbean leaders at both the OECS and Caricom levels and a regional approach is being considered.
He said, “We collectively agreed to start gradually relaxing the restrictions for travel, as the pandemic in the region has been largely contained. Governments, airlines and hotels are now finalising the details of this phased re-opening. Assuming that the requisite protocols are in place, we expect to open our borders in the first week of June.”
Dr Mitchell assured Grenadians that the health and safety of citizens remain a primary concern. He said, “Borders were closed to prevent the spread of the virus and to save lives, and for now, we must maintain that status quo…I assure you, fellow Grenadians, we will not move unless we are satisfied that adequate health and safety guidelines are in place.”
At the 10th Special Emergency Meeting of Caricom Heads of Government last week, a sub-committee was established to engage stakeholders in the tourism industry to agree on appropriate protocols that will ensure the safety of workers and visitors alike, once borders are re-opened.
These protocols will be informed by a regional public health policy which the heads have agreed, is necessary to guide the criteria for reopening. The health policy is being drafted and will be submitted to Caricom Heads of Government for final approval.
As plans continue for the reopening of borders, government says it is open to receiving Grenadians stranded on cruise ships and in other countries, as long as they have the means to find their way home and considering the country’s limited capacity to provide mandatory quarantine facilities.
Last weekend, more than 40 Grenadians, who served as crew members aboard cruise lines were repatriated. The returning nationals were all screened and transported to mandatory quarantine.
In his national address, Prime Minister Mitchell confirmed that government is singlehandedly bearing the cost of this 2-week quarantine, which includes the testing of persons to determine whether or not they are infected with Covid-19.
Office of the Prime Minister
they need to just let them get tested a few days before and just come with the results , im do to be married September 6 im supposed to come to Grenada for the first ,my other half is there waiting on me, i feel so sad , i got tested a few days ago im negative
Everyone here has a Valid point of concern and also is much entitled to their own opinions. As for me I’m rooting for Grenada to reopen soon yet in a strategic way like For families who are separated (like Myself) and need to get back home to our family Husband’s,Wives,Children etc. and mindful that in this type of circumstances it’s not just for selfish and narrow minded reasons but for a substantial enough reason and upon reaching let us go straight to our designated location and quarantine for 15 days and move forward. Keep the faith in the Creator of all things ,that all will be well because this to shall pass nothing remains the same seasons always change And with this being said I’ve spoken(written) my peace May God Bless is all.
us all*
I need the borders to open by June once everything is alright. My hussy got trapped out there and I need him home so badly. I am gettin a bit frustrated. I am getting panic attacks because I cannot stay home alone. Please Grenadians continue to flattern the curve so everyone can get back to their various homes safe and sound.
First, I think that Government is doing a good job managing the virus – although there are some areas that are somewhat weak and therefore need significant improvement. Still, I agree with the preceding comment that it would be too risky to open our borders so soon. Just look at the emergence of second waves to tell you why (China, Sweden, Singapore, various parts of the USA). God forbid that we do get a second wave. But if we do, the blame and costs will be on OUR shoulders – no one else’s.
It is so sad that you would open the country so quick! Carona virus is still spreading like wild fire. I don’t know why the leaders in Grenada are seeing how much they need to boost the Agriculture sector. Tourism will not be the antidote. Your people need food ! You care too much about foreigners than your own people! Too much Concrete Jungles!!! You really need to think before you act!!! June is too soon to reopen the country. Think about the people whose immune system is compromised!