The Grenada Board of Tourism refers to an article published in the May 26, 2005 issue of the Grenada Today newspaper captioned "Grenada getting new Tourism Director".

It wishes to point out that the statement, "Joseph had requested a one year extension of his contract...did not meet with favour from the government-appointed board" is substantially flawed and incorrect.

The Board is concerned that this unfortunate error can lead to speculation or conclusion that there was an erosion of satisfaction and a collapse of confidence between the Board of Directors and the Director of Tourism. It must be stressed that any such speculation or conclusion would be most definitely wrong.

The facts are that the Director of Tourism was asked whether or not he would agree to give a further two years of service in that capacity. In response, Mr. Joseph indicated that he was only able to offer his services for one additional year, on account of his preparation for a retirement career in law.

The Board of Directors subsequently accepted this, and recommended same to the Minister responsible for Tourism. It is important to note that under the statute establishing the Grenada Board of Tourism, the Board of Directors can appoint a Director of Tourism only with the approval of the Minister for Tourism.

By virtue of a letter issued by the Chairman of the Board of Directors, Mr. Joseph was duly advised that the Minister had not given approval for a further appointment of one year.

Mr. William Joseph, who served the Grenada Board of Tourism with distinction and commitment for the past six years, enjoys the honour of being Grenada's longest serving Director of Tourism.