Grenada Roundup: Gastro outbreak, investments, firearms

Stomach flu outbreak

The Grenada Ministry of Health has verified that the norovirus, often referred to as the 'stomach flu,' is the main cause behind the current widespread gastroenteritis outbreak on the island. This conclusion comes after thorough lab tests by the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) in Trinidad and Tobago. Known worldwide as a common source of acute gastroenteritis, the norovirus induces symptoms like diarrhoea, vomiting, nausea, and stomach pain. It is especially known for its rapid spread through tainted food and water, contact with contaminated surfaces, and person-to-person interaction, reports Loop.

Firearm offences elevated

Grenada has elevated firearm-related offences to the same level as murder and treason. Magistrates are no longer authorised to issue bail for those charged under the Firearms Act, as the government aims to address the high number of firearm offences in the country. Offences under the act will now be considered "very serious" and non-bailable. As reported by the Jamaica Observer, the amendment to the Criminal Procedure Code now includes offences under the Firearms Act that are punishable by imprisonment for five years or more as non-bailable. Grenada confiscated 35 firearms between January to June 2024, leading to the implementation of these changes.

New pricing for Citizenship by Investment Programme

IMA Grenada has announced a new pricing structure for its Citizenship by Investment Programme, aligning with standardised rates across the OECS. The minimum investment requirement will be US$235,000, in line with other member states. This change aims to end price competition and strengthen governance infrastructure, while enhancing transparency and accountability in the investment migration industry, according to Loop.

Grenada economy gets ‘high marks’ from IMF

In a notable shift from the usual narrative, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has highlighted Grenada's economic prospects in a positive light, a rare occurrence for Caribbean nations, particularly those labelled as Less Developed Countries (LDCs). The IMF's latest evaluation following their visit to the 'Spice Isle' forecasts an impressive nearly four percent economic growth. The team noted that Grenada is witnessing 'sustained, strong growth,' supported significantly by its thriving tourism industry. According to Stabroek News, Grenada, like several other CARICOM countries, continues to rely heavily on costly food imports from outside the region despite its active agricultural sector.

Preparation for Hurrican Beryl

Authorities have issued a call to action for Grenada, Carriacou, and Petite Martinique inhabitants to finalize their preparations in anticipation of Hurricane Beryl. The collective islands of Grenada were declared to be under a Hurricane Warning as of 8 pm on Saturday, a status shared with Barbados, St Lucia, St Vincent and the Grenadines. Gerard Tamar, a forecaster at the Meteorological Office, has indicated that, given Beryl's current trajectory and location, the storm's eye is predicted to traverse the Grenadine Islands early on Monday, June 24. Tamar emphasised that, in addition to the hurricane's powerful winds, the expected rainfall poses a significant threat, with projections estimating up to 100 millimetres of rain along the hurricane's course, reports Loop.