The Grenada Bankers Association endorses the viewpoint that accelerating the vaccination uptake becomes even more crucial and urgent, as new virus mutations emerge, while Grenada and other neighbouring islands deal with second and third waves of COVID-19 infections.
This was among the crux of discussion when representatives of the Bankers’ Association and representatives of the Ministry of Finance met and held talks recently about macroeconomic and financial issues, including the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on the economy.
Both sides expressed concern about the relatively low vaccination levels in Grenada, which heighten the risk of a second wave of COVID-19 outbreak and its accompanying social and economic ramifications.
Well, the Grenada Bankers Association commends the significant actions that have been taken thus far and those that are ongoing in managing risks related to COVID-19 to keep the country safe.
REPORT:
The harsh truth, as outlined in a joint statement, endorsed by both parties, is that low levels of vaccination lengthen the period of economic downturn, as well as social disruptions, and which increases the likelihood of more restrictions and lock downs.
Therefore, the joint statement goes on to encourage an increase in the vaccine up-take now, so as to arrest the rising human toll caused by the pandemic and to halt further strains on the economy and financial sector.
While in normal times, according to the voices at the meeting, it’s understood that the choice to get vaccinated is a personal one, in the context of the deadly pandemic, the public good supersedes personal choices.
The meeting between the Bankers Association and the Ministry of Finance confirms that these are extraordinary times, and, as such, extraordinary actions are necessary.
Grenadian Nationals are strongly encouraged to get vaccinated, because vaccination is the only sustainable way out of the pandemic and to protect those most at risk in the frontline in all sectors, public or private, including banking and government services.
The emerging global evidence suggests that higher rates of vaccination tend to be associated with lower rates of infection, hospitalizations and deaths related to COVID-19.
The joint statement went on to strongly encourage Grenadians to counter misinformation with credible and specific facts from reliable sources, from family, friends and co-workers who themselves have already been vaccinated, since it’s priority for all to protect themselves and be safe and healthy.
