Mayor warns Christmas vendors: No illegal vending

Port-of-Spain Mayor Murchison Brown has sent out a stern warning to vendors for the upcoming Christmas season, pointing out that no “illegal” vending will be tolerated this year. He was speaking at the formal opening and launch of a South American business, Colombian Underwear stores, on Frederick Street, Port-of-Spain yesterday. Over the years, the issue of street vending has reared its ugly head, especially around Christmas time. Brown said the vendors know how to proceed in terms of application for space at Woodford Square, which has been allocated for vending for the Christmas season. He said he was working in tandem with police authorities on the matter, pointing out that the vendors can’t say they have not been warned. Brown said he is concerned that while driving through the streets of Port-of-Spain on Christmas mornings, to see a mass movement of vendors, sometimes sleeping on the sidewalks and large piles of garbage on the streets.

“This would not be tolerated this year. I am working with the police to work out a strategic plan. The vendors have been given a fair warning for those who deliberately flout the law,” he said. Brown said as part of the City Corporation’s continuing drive to clean up the streets of Port-of-Spain, it has acquired a drain-cleaning machine, called the “Aqua-Tech Gulley Sucker.” However, he appealed to people that not because this equipment is now available, they should put it to the test by littering more. “As a matter of fact, we appeal to people to adopt the attitude of being their own litter wardens and help keep the City and its drains clean,” he said. Brown disclosed that in addition, more public toilet facilities are being acquired, two of which will be placed at the Queen’s Park Savannah.