The New National Party is deeply concerned with the seemingly constant increases in the price of gas and food items, which is essential for our modern survival – especially for the poor and vulnerable persons in our society. The party also laments the apparent absence of an effective government strategy to enable Grenadians to cope with the harsh economic realities.

The level of unemployment in our country at this point in time is too high for comfort, jobs are extremely scarce to come by and most workers have not received an increase in salary in many years. These are the economic and social realities in our country at present and we call on the government to get its priorities straight and act speedily with a view to reducing the pressure which most Grenadians are now experiencing.

Whilst in office, the New National Party successfully conceived of and implemented programs designed to reduce the economic hardships on Grenadians so much so that many were not aware that there was a harsh economic recession in progress.

The government needs to take a more proactive approach to assist Grenadians in coping with current economic challenges – especially the poor and vulnerable persons, who are already under tremendous pressure. These increases have caused a high level of anxiety among citizens and have contributed – advertently or inadvertently – towards a wide range of emerging social challenges.

Every family is facing the realities of soaring gas prices, rising food costs and the threat of these essential commodities reaching unaffordable levels in the upcoming months. The Opposition therefore believes that it is imperative that government acts quickly to address the present situation and help cushion the impact the increases are having on the people of Grenada.