The Construction Association of Grenada (CAG), with its new corporate logo unveiled, has issued a call to all reputable companies operating in the sector to join and reap the benefits of belonging to the umbrella body.

CAG President Kelvin Jacobs, speaking at the unveiling of the logo on Wednesday (February 22), outlined some of the benefits the Association has provided to members since its inception in September 2005.

The two winning artists and others who entered the competition were recognised at a special ceremony to unveil the CAG corporate logo at the Board Room of the Agency for Reconstruction and Development (ARD).

CAG President Kelvin Jacobs unveils corporate logo

Twenty-five year old Andrew Richards of St. George's won first prize of $700, while eight year old Allina Panchoo from the St. Andrew's RC School won second prize of $300. The cash prizes were donated by CAG Director Christopher Wint.  Nine year old D'Andre Adams of South St. George Government School received Special Mention.

There were 38 entries from 26 participants, including one entry from New York. Entries were submitted either directly by artists or through schools. Participating schools included St. Andrew's RC, Westerhall Secondary, St. David's RC, Westmoreland, Presentation Brothers College and South St. George Government School.

Mr. Jacobs said the Association has provided a standardised form of contract for its members that meets international requirements and can also "be easily tailored for the specific job needs in Grenada."

He reported that the Association has been invited by the Government of Grenada to serve on committees examining the Occupational Safety and Health Act and the proposed Corruption Prevention Bill.

Stressing the importance of networking and sharing information and expertise, Mr. Jacobs said by working together Association members are better prepared to bid on large projects that are often awarded to foreign companies.

ARD Director of Economic Recovery Richard de Lima told the CAG Board of Directors that trade, industrial and professional associations are critically important in facilitating development under normal circumstances, let alone in this post Ivan/Emily period.

"As an Association, you are in a better position to lobby Government on matters of policy and regulations that impact on your operations," Mr. de Lima said.

"As an officially recognised and legally registered Association, you are in a better position to regulate yourselves. This is critically important to ensure credibility and maintain the standards of performance you establish for the Association and its members," Mr. de Lima said.

The CAG was established on September 3, 2005 with support and guidance from the ARD. The ARD also assisted the CAG with the corporate logo competition.