NEW G-G SWORN IN

 By Linda Straker

AT 10:07 a.m. on Tuesday, Dr. Cecile La Grenade became Grenada’s sixth Governor-General and the first woman to be sworn into that position in a ceremony at the Trade Centre attended by Government officials, members of the diplomatic corps as well as her family and friends.

Coloured with a military parade, guard of honour inspection and a 21-gun salute, the ceremony was described as a landmark in Grenada’s history as it is happening in a period where female involvement in decision making appears to be ranking high. Following the February 19 General Election, more than 30 per cent of parliamentarians became women.

The new Governor-General, Dr. Cecile La Grenade,
inspecting the Guard of Honour for the first time.

Persons who witnessed the ceremony of the new Governor General.

Prime Minister Dr. Keith Mitchell has described the swearing-in of the new Governor-General as setting the tone for national unity. “For the first time we have someone who cannot be attached to any political party when compared to the last three Governors-General,” he told the packed Trade Centre.

“Her selection breaks the tradition of being politically attached to become the Head of State,” he added.

“The minute she took the oath and allegiance of office, she moved from a fine citizen to the conscience of the nation,” he said.

Coming from a line of family where her grandmother was the first woman to be elected to the legislative council, she gave the assurance that she will be working in the best interest of Grenada. In her inauguration throne speech, she promised to focus on youth and women.


“Any opportunity that can be present to create an impact will be welcome,” she said, while pointing out that she believes in the power of education.

She also expressed her concerns about the historic buildings and landmarks in the city, which were damaged by Hurricanes Ivan and Emily in 2004 and 2005 respectively and are today in dilapidated conditions. She specifically pointed out York and Government House – two buildings which are directly important to the government of the day.

York House held the Parliament and the High Court while Government House was the official
residence for the Head of State. Since the hurricanes, the Trade Centre became the temporary house of Parliament while the Governor General has resided in rented facilities.

“I pray that with the requisite and consent, I will assist in leading the way in the restoration of these fine buildings of Georgian architecture,” she said.

“I know that there are many Grenadians who will want to see these buildings returned to their former glory.”