LONDON, UK, May 16, 2010 - Grenada’s Foreign Minister, The Honourable Peter David, this weekend continued his series of visits to sensitise the Diaspora on Government’s aim to engage nationals abroad in furthering the economic development of Grenada.

Grenadian Nationals residing in the United Kingdom, on Sunday 16th May, gathered in Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, 190 miles north of London, to listen to the Foreign Minister and share their views and ideas of how they can effectively contribute to this new initiative undertaken by the Grenada Government.

The two-hour meeting was extremely interactive and Minister David was pleased to note the interest of the UK Diaspora, who had historically contributed to Grenada’s progress in several areas, and the significant support to the economy through remittances.

The meeting received ideas for the proposed Diaspora Preparatory Conference to be convened in Grenada August 5-6, 2010. The Minister received several suggestions for improving the relationship between home and abroad, in particular, second generation Grenadians who may be invited to pursue work attachments and gain new experiences in Grenada.

The meeting also suggested the involvement of all sectors in the Diaspora Initiative, especially the Tourism and Health Sectors. Minister David, in extending an invitation to all present to participate and become involved in the process leading to the Founding Conference of the Diaspora in 2011 and Homecoming in 2012, made a call for the establishment of a Diaspora Consultative Committee to work in conjunction with the High Commission for Grenada.

The High Commissioner for Grenada HE Ruth Elizabeth Rouse thanked those who journeyed from London, Manchester, Sheffield and the hosts Huddersfield, and paid particular tribute to Mrs. Cynthia St. Louis, who took responsibility for the local organisation of the event and Mrs. Juliette Benjamin who catered a sumptuous Grenadian meal to the participants.

There are currently over 30,000 Grenadians first and second generations scattered throughout the UK. In recent years, several have returned to reside in Grenada and are making their contribution there.