Controversy as Chinese built stadium is handed over ....

What was supposed to be one of the most joyous occasions in Grenada’s recent history has turned into perhaps the most embarrassing diplomatic incident the country has ever experienced.

PM Mitchell (plain shirt) accompanied by Governor General

Following two years of extensive work by the People’s Republic of China to bring Grenada to a level of readiness for the upcoming Cricket World Cup 2007 tournament next month, a crowd of Chinese workers and carefully selected guests heard the national anthem of Taiwan being rendered by the Royal Grenada Police Force Band — rather than the national anthem of the People’s Republic of China.

At Saturday’s handing over of what has now been described as a world class sporting facility, Grenada’s Prime Minister was forced to utter a heart-felt apology to the Chinese dignitaries who were stunned by the development.  The debacle has triggered swift reaction, globally; particularly in light of Grenada’s decision to severe diplomatic ties with Taiwan in 2005.

The tri-island state is also currently embroiled in a law suit from Taiwan’s Export Import Bank over it’s defaulting on a loan from Taiwan to pay for the said national stadium which was destroyed by hurricane Ivan in 2004. It was only back in 2005 that the Government of Grenada severed diplomatic ties with Taiwan, and embraced the People’s Republic of China who undertook the construction of the new stadium in order to prepare Grenada to host the upcoming Cricket World Cup tourney in April.

Band Leader sent home

Meanwhile Commissioner of Police Mr. Winston James has ordered an investigation into the circumstances that led to the Police Force Band rendering the incorrect anthem for the People’s Republic of China during the Official Handing over Ceremony for the Grenada National Stadium on Saturday February 3rd 2007. The investigation will be spearheaded by Deputy Commissioner of Police Raymond Charles, who has been directed by Commissioner James to utilize all the resources of the Royal Grenada Police Force, to be thorough in the process and most importantly, make the required recommendations to ensure there is never a reoccurrence, a statement from Police Head Quarters said.

Meanwhile Inspector Bryan Hurst was relieved of his responsibilities as Band Master pending the outcome of the investigation. He will be re-assigned to a new position within the R.G.P.F. by Friday 9th 2007.

Sergeant John Amede will act as Band Master during the period.

Commissioner Winston James is also expected to seek an audience with H.E. Qian Hongshan Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Grenada to personally apologize on behalf of the Royal Grenada Police Force for the very unfortunate incident.

Apology

The Government of Grenada wishes to apologize to the Government and people of the Peoples Republic of China for any misunderstanding or embarrassment caused by the playing of the incorrect anthem at the Handing Over Ceremony of the National Stadium. A full investigation has commenced and two police officers directly involved in the event have been relieved of their duty pending the outcome of the investigation.

A news release from the Prime Minister’s Ministry said the Government of Grenada remains committed to building a mutually beneficial relationship between the Government and People of Grenada and the Government and People of the Peoples Republic of China.