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Mayor to Vendors: “Better Conditions Coming”

Image of Peterson Francis
Image of Peterson Francis
Peterson Francis

CASTRIES City Mayor Peterson Francis this week attempted to bridge the chasm that existed between him and vendors created when he, unknown to the vendors, removed their belongings from the city’s center to the Marchand Market almost two weeks ago.

He registered his efforts to make amends while delivering the opening remarks at the launch of a three-day training session for vendors.

His message, upbeat and optimistic as it was, showed Francis committing to better conditions and brighter days ahead for vendors plying their trade within the City of Castries.

The training which is being conducted in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism through the OECS Regional Tourism Competitiveness Project, aims to sensitise vendors with a particular focus on activities relevant to the redevelopment of Castries and the Central Market.

The workshop will also focus on building the skills of vendors in Tourism Product Development and Marketing; Environmental Health and Food Safety; Sanitation and Hygiene; Quality Standards, Product Presentation, Labelling, Business and Product Quality and Customer Relations.

Francis urged vendors to take advantage of the opportunities available to them, highlighting that his overall goal is to revitalise Castries to bring economic benefits to all vendors.

He took the opportunity to reaffirm his support for city vendors following a recent disagreement over the removal of hazardous stalls and other items from the city sidewalks.

“I will use this occasion through you to apologise to the affected vendors. My sincerest apologies; we have a keen interest in you and what you do, and have always worked in your interest,” Francis said.

He has agreed to waive vending fees for one week for as a result of his actions which drew indignation from vendors. He has since guaranteed vendors that the CCC will offer great improvement in the coming months for the benefit of both vendors and the wider public.

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