– random inspections to be conducted at these markets
REGULATORY work is now being undertaken by the relevant authorities to create a system of inspection, especially of meat, that is beneficial for all parties involved as efforts by Government to upgrade and modernise neighborhood/municipal markets continue. This was the principal focus of a meeting held yesterday  by Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Kellawan Lall, with Environment Health Officers, from Region Four, Environmental Health Assistants and several senior staff members of the Georgetown Mayor and City Council.
Also present were Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Local Government, Seewchan; Region Four Chairman, Clement Corlette; and Town Clerk of Georgetown, Yonette Pluck-Cort.

Minister Lall urged inspectors, who have been duly trained, to conduct their duties, which would, in effect, stymie the practice of selling exposed meat on the roadside and potentially halt the slaughtering of animals at markets or in their immediate environs.

The Mon Repos Market, which is a hub of activity on weekends, with vendors occupying space on the shoulders of the public road and along the access road in the village, is one location that was cited as having such activities taking place.

As a result of discussions during the session, it was recommended that a list be compiled of known people who sell meat, in order to regularize and formally licence these persons, thereby phasing out the practice of slaughtering animals on the road sides and in domestic areas.

There have been allegations that some of the meat sold at community markets is from stolen cattle. The recommended documentation will make a note of the original point of purchase of this perishable commodity, ensuring that the meat was legitimately obtained.

The new system will also curtail the wanton sale of expired meat, with vendors being required to follow the proper procedures for the sale of meat and related health implications if it is not properly handled.

This will be another way of fostering greater adherence, by merchants to the national financial system and encourage the payment of VAT and taxes.
Minister Lall indicated that a formal notice will be advertised informing the public at large, and vendors, in particular, that the Ministry’s officers will be conducting a “walk-through.’ If it is found that meat that is not stamped (with approval tags) is being sold, the commodity will be seized.
It was highlighted that while environmentally clean industrial activities can exist in domestic communities by use of air filters, persons interested in establishing such industries must be prepared to invest in proper facilities.
Additionally, all undertakings of this nature must be done through the proper channels of registration.

While municipal markets were high on the agenda of issues that Minister Lall addressed, concern was also raised about the violation of building codes and the design of structures being erected in different locations across the coast.

Minister Lall noted that the Ministry needs to be involved in the drafting and designing of buildings, as well as the monitoring of approved plans and expressed concern about staff members who prepare building plans as an extra source of income.
He made it clear that such persons must disclose this information to the ministry so that they are not a part of the approval process, thereby ensuring the integrity of the process.

He urged officers to commit to professionalism and not contribute to corrupting the existing system, since it is in place to protect the interests of the citizens of Guyana. Staff was cautioned not to accept bribes and it was made clear that persons found to be in breach or violation will be relieved of their position and duties.

The Government Information Agency said the Ministry will organise a series of training sessions to enlighten staff, at the Ministry and the National Democratic Councils (NDCs) about their role and responsibility within the sector, and, significantly, the human resource capacity at the Ministry will be upgraded by the presence of an expert advisor on education and health issues.
Minister Lall and Regional Chairman Corlette reaffirmed that ongoing work will continue to be done, to organise training and resources, in general, and confirm the availability and access to the abattoir on the East Coast of Demerara.
Additionally, arrangements will be put in place to secure fair working hours and provide more incentives to staff members who would spend extended hours on the job, regularising conditions and bringing them up to appropriate codes and standards, in the best interest of the Guyanese consumers.