Francis – Streets of Kingstown to be cleaned up by June 24

In about three weeks time, the congestion of vendors’ stalls on the streets of Kingstown should be improved.{{more}} This was expressed by Minister of Transport, Works, Urban Development and Local Government Julian Francis, as he discussed issues relating to vendors and the cleaning of Kingstown during a meeting at the Kingstown Market, on Thursday, June 2, 2010.

Francis, speaking to the vendors during the meeting, stated that he hoped to have the streets of Kingstown cleaned by June 24, 2011. Francis remarked that currently, the congestion of vendors’ stalls and benches is unsightly, especially after all the vendors are gone and the benches are packed and stacked up, left on the streets of Kingstown.

Francis noted that attempts to implement a plan to solve the issue were postponed due to several factors, including his political responsibilities, the economic crisis and the shift in focus following the recent natural disasters Hurricane Tomas and the flash floods. He added, however, that the ministry is now ready to focus on the cleaning of the town.

Also speaking at the meeting, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Transport and Works Kenrick Glynn stated that the ministry is committed to improving the business, environment in Kingstown, so that all persons can benefit. “Our effort is to improve the business environment in Kingstown for large businesses, small businesses vendors and other persons who come to Kingstown to shop,” Glynn said. He added that the cooperation of the vendors would be needed to make their efforts successful.

Francis added that the main purpose of the meeting was to hear suggestions from the vendors as to how to go about cleaning up the stalls, tables and benches on the streets of Kingstown, and possible storage options that are available.

During the open forum session of the meeting, vendors expressed their dissatisfaction with the market conditions and what they perceive as unfair treatment by Kingstown Board officials, among other issues.

Francis, making remarks at the end of the meeting, stated that another meeting will be held with ministry officials, as well as Kingstown board officials and 20 members of the vending community. Francis stated that the 20 persons should be chosen by the vendors themselves, to represent them during the meetings with officials.