PR – Political candidate Andy Best has outlined an ambitious development vision for St. Patrick, anchored by new cultural, tourism, port, healthcare and youth-development initiatives aimed at unlocking the parish’s economic potential and creating greater opportunities for its people.
The parish has the resources and talent to become a major centre of economic activity, said Best, who is the candidate for the Democratic People’s Movement (DPM) for St. Patrick West.
Best, addressing a community meeting of the DPM, said that what St. Patrick needs is a deliberate development strategy to maximize its potential.
“We have a great opportunity to become the maker of Grenada when it comes to economic activities,” Best told supporters and residents.
Among his proposals is establishing a cultural centre in St. Patrick where residents, particularly young people, could receive training in music, dance, drama and other creative disciplines. Best said the initiative would build on the parish’s strong cultural traditions, while creating jobs and helping talented Grenadians develop their skills.
He also called for proper port infrastructure in St. Patrick, arguing that the parish must be positioned to benefit from increased tourism and maritime activity, particularly with developments planned for Levera.
Best said the economic opportunities created by increased visitor arrivals must benefit residents, including fishermen, tour operators, diving operators and other small businesses.
On healthcare, Best said St. Patrick must move beyond basic clinic services and provide residents with access to more advanced medical care that is closer to home.
“Why do we have to go to St. George’s in 2026 for our tests—an ultrasound, an X-ray, dialysis?” he asked. “All those facilities must be placed at our health centre.”
He also questioned why pregnant women should have to leave the parish to access maternity services, saying that local healthcare infrastructure should be capable of meeting the needs of both residents and visitors.
Best further pledged stronger support for national athletes, including assistance with medical treatment and rehabilitation, while highlighting his longstanding community work supporting young people.
“I am coming into this politics not to do something that is brand new; but, to continue what I’ve been doing all my life,” said Best.
