At the request of the leadership of the National Democratic Congress, yesterday, 24 June 2020, a delegation of the party met with representation from the Grenada Co-operative Nutmeg Association (GCNA) and the Grenada Cocoa Association (GCA).
Our aim in requesting the meeting was to hear first-hand, the plight and stance of these associations, as they face the threat of a hostile takeover by the current administration; and to offer them our solidarity and support.
Having listened carefully to the GCNA and the GCA, the NDC stands strengthened in its resolve to fully support the nutmeg and cocoa farmers of Grenada who now face a sudden and immediate threat of the dismantling of both associations. Very little time was given to the GCNA, the GCA and their members to examine the proposed Bill and all its implications for them. They were pressed for feedback mere days after receipt of the proposed Bill. The question for government is, why the rush?
The government is attempting to package and present its nefarious plan as a merger of the 2 commodity boards that will be beneficial to both. This is a sham. In fact, the boards that are now controlled by the farmers will be replaced by one that will be entirely handpicked and controlled by government.
Government has so far failed to show how this so-called merger will work to benefit the nutmeg and cocoa industries in any substantial and impactful way. On the other hand, an examination of the draft Bill shows clearly that the so-called merger will lead to the certain death of both associations and an end to any control farmers have over their future in the industry. Without the oversight of the GCNA and GCA, Grenada stands to lose its status as number one in the world for quality product, as farmers will be able to sell however, wherever and to whomever they want, without adequate quality controls.
This hostile takeover will undermine a sector of the Grenadian economy that we have managed well ourselves for over 73 years. Nutmeg and cocoa have educated, fed and provided economic independence to many Grenadians. This takeover cannot be in the best interest of the people of Grenada.
This has become a national issue, therefore, the NDC encourages all stakeholder groups in Grenada, to follow suit and directly engage the GCNA and the GCA so as to get a better understanding of their struggle. Further, we repeat our call to all Grenadians to stand firm with the nutmeg and cocoa farmers in vigorously opposing this vicious act of betrayal by the NNP administration. We must all unite against this attempt by our own government to sell usout and throw us back to “massah” days where others direct our path and tell us what is best for us.
NDC
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Surely this cannot happen just like that? The government can just go and do what the hell it likes? What is a hostile takeover by the government? Will not give you cash as support during a huge worldwide crisis unless you let us run it? Blackmail and greed?
Well who vote them in can also take them.out.
Is time you guys wake up stop sell.oiut 4 some food .
This country is way behind time with the same party year in and out.
There policing the hole set up is detriment to u all the very best man 4 your country was you know .
But good never rain 4 long in this business wicked and heart less at the top wolf in sheep clothing.
The people is the power and you hve to fight 4 what you want in life .
Am sad 4 what is going on.