CARICOM HEADS MEET IN GRENADA

Prime Minister Dr the Hon Keith Rowley and other regional leaders met on day one of the 47th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) in St George’s, Grenada today (Monday 29th July, 2024).

Issues related to climate change, specifically the passage of Hurricane Beryl and its aftermath, featured heavily in this morning’s session.

Heads acknowledged the impact of the hurricane reinforced the vulnerability of Small Island Developing States (SIDS) which are disproportionately affected by climate change.

The urgent requirement for the operation of the Loss and Damage Fund, changes to the regional insurance scheme, and access to appropriate financing to rebuild, all formed part of the plenary discussions.

This morning heads also received an update on the status of food and nutrition security in the region, the strategy for regional digital resilience and preparations for the 29th Session of the UN Climate Change Conference (COP 29).

Heads are meeting in caucus this afternoon where they will turn their attention to, among other matters, the CARICOM Single Market and Economy and the implementation of the decisions on free movement.

Accompanying the Prime Minister to today’s meetings were the Minister of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs, Senator the Hon. Dr Amery Browne and Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Senator the Hon. Reginald Armour SC.