The Tourism and football issues that were discussed raised serious
concerns about the ability of government departments and associations
to plan proactively. I am embarrassed to hear that Grenada would treat
a visiting football team in such a callous manner.
I had not intended to share my personal experience, but after the show
I thought otherwise. Having listened to the show for some time, it is
clear that you always try to present an impartial viewpoint allowing
the audience to judge based on the facts.
In March of this year I contacted the General Manager at the then Point
Salines International Airport. The
attached letter outlines the
communication.
Later I followed up with a phone call and email, but no response.
As I was not having any luck contacting the airport manager, in April I contacted the Grenada High Commission here in Toronto to obtain the name of the Minister in charge of Tourism. They told me that he would be the other person to contact regarding the airport.
I contacted him via letter also
(attached)
Discussions would have centered on two main topics:
1: The inability to hear flight and information announcements throughout the airport.
** This in an emergency could have serious implications.
2: There is very little in the way of information (except leaflets) in the arrivals area.
** Using Modern Audio Visual presentations; this would be the time to excite and inform the incoming visitors about Grenada.
** This is time when the Visitors are most receptive.
As my time to arrive in Grenada drew near, messages were left with the
office of both individuals, but there was not any feedback.
I do understand that these positions carry large responsibilities, and
there are many pieces of communication to deal with on a daily basis.
However; there must be some mechanism in place to deal with enquires!
I was never able to speak to either individual directly, so I cannot confirm that the communication was received.
Please understand that as a Grenadian descendant, and I have no
political affiliation, and this communication is not meant to elicit
any response from anyone. Just to inform you as a journalist that
there maybe other things going on in addition to those discussed on
the show that would not normally come too light. It also allows me to
vent my frustration.
My concern is for Grenada moving forward, the world is now a very
competitive place, with the whole Caribbean competing for the same
tourist dollars. With tourism being Grenada’s major source of income I
would expect that more resources would be allocated. It appears that for many years tourism has been taken for granted.
Grenada needs to adopt a new attitude of professionalism both at home
and abroad.
Sincerely Michael Charles
EDITOR'S NOTE: Upon receipt of this communique, GrenadaBroadcasst opted to consult with both parties. mentioned therein. An email was sent to the Minister on June 16 (the day after receipt) and an attempt was made mae to reach the General Manager. Neither effort has been responded to!
