Responding to complaints by users of the facility, that the wharf was in a deplorable condition, he said its rehabilitation will be completed in another two weeks.

Khan said the complaining fishermen owe millions of dollars in fees, which, if paid, would put the pier in better condition.

The complainants, told the Guyana Chronicle that, 15 years ago, the place was well organised with all arrangements in place but the today situation is depressing.

The complainants, who requested anonymity for fear of victimisation, said the rear section is in need of urgent repairs as people are falling through the rotten boards.

According to them, the space is so congested, especially in the morning that it is difficult to traverse and that is to the detriment of genuine fishermen, who are members of the co-op.

They alleged that vendors who sell there also leave fish remnants for flies and worms to feast on, resulting in an unbearable stench.

One of the co-operators said what is needed is the proper relocation of the vending group to facilitate a smooth flow of traffic whether by vehicle or people.

Principal function
They said, while the principal function of the co-op is to provide gasolene, fishing nets and other necessary equipment at competitive prices, such a service is not being delivered.

They also reiterated that they meet their financial obligations to the organisation, and advocated for changes within the management and appealed to Agriculture Minister Robert Persaud and the Chief Co-ops and Fisheries Officers and the Maritime Administration to intervene on their behalf.

But Khan claimed some fishermen recruit hucksters to buy their catch and the leftovers are purchased by other persons who are not even members of the society, several attempts were made to remove them amidst their claims to being denied a right to earn a living.

He disclosed that some reports were made to the Police to look into the situation but to no avail.

Khan said it is strange that a group of fishermen are alleging that they are not receiving fuel and other necessities from the co-op at special prices when many of them are buying contraband cheaper.

He also mentioned that money collected from the membership during the past two years was used to construct a fence to the wharf and the complainants should know about it because the work was overseen by a team of fishermen.