The newly-built multi-million-dollar state-of-the-art Parliament Building perched on Mt. Wheldale, St. George’s, is now the new home to the upper and lower houses of Parliament following an official opening ceremony and special joint sitting of the parliament on June 21.
Representatives from donor countries, including Australia, United Arab Emirates and Mexico, local government officials, regional leaders, members of the diplomatic corps and other delegates all gathered one hundred days after the re-election of the New National Party administration to get a firsthand experience of the Nutmeg Palace, the centre of diplomacy in Grenada. Scores of Grenadian citizens were also in attendance to witness the special and auspicious occasion.
Prime Minister Dr. Keith Mitchell, in addressing the ceremony, gave the assurance that under his watch and that of the New National Party government the building would always be a symbol of collaboration and the fullest representation for all the people.
He expressed the hope that the general public would have more of an interest in parliamentary proceedings going forward, noting that Parliament has been shaped to invite everyone in to listen to the concerns of the people and the building will forever channel aspirations, resolving conflicts and views and shape the country’s future.
He expressed gratitude to all the donor countries that made the new Parliament building a reality, explaining that the real effects of climate change were considered in the design of the new building.
Prime Minister Mitchell did the unveiling of the plaque together with the donors and parliamentary officials.
Minister for Infrastructure Development, Public Utility, Transportation and Implementation, Gregory Bowen, said that phase one of the project cost approximately US$12.2 million and that upon the completion of phase two there will be similar capacity on the outside of the chamber with live audio-visual displays around the facility.
In addition to the main chamber, Minister Bowen indicated that the new building will include offices for the staff of the houses of parliament, a dining facility, media bay, child care area, sick bay and access for the disabled, among other amenities.
The new Parliament building was completed with funding from the Government of Mexico in the sum of US$5 million, the Government of the United Arab Emirates donated US$4.9 million, the Government of Australia provided US$680,000,
