Calypsonians to be paid following ultimatum

Minister with responsibility for Information Glen Noel said all winners of Spicemas 2011 will receive full payment Monday.

ST. GEORGE’S, Grenada, Monday October 24, 2011 - Authorities have moved to avert legal action by calypsonians, announcing that members of that group along with other carnival winners would be paid all outstanding money Monday - the day that a deadline for payment expires.

The Grenada Professional Association of Calypsonians and Tents (GPACT) had warned the Grenada Carnival Committee of legal action over the two-month payment delay.

Days after that threat was issued, Minister with responsibility for Information Glen Noel said that just over $400,000 has been secured for the full payment of prizes to Spicemas 2011 winners - pan, soca, calypso and masquerade.

He blamed the late payment on the global economic crisis and inconsistencies in government’s cash flow.

“Government recognizes the importance of the stakeholders and the significant contributions they have made over the years to carnival in Grenada,” Noel said.

He stressed the need for government, the public and the private sectors “to continue working together to ensure the continued development of Grenada’s carnival.’’

GPACT has accused the carnival organizer of treating members disrespectfully and said the 2012 carnival season would not be business as usual. Click here to receive free news bulletins via email from Caribbean360. (View sample)