HEAD of the Presidential Secretariat, Dr. Roger Luncheon, at his press briefing last Wednesday, revealed that Cabinet had approved $82.9M for the construction of the Mahaica market.
The new structure will replace the old dilapidated one. The government had taken the decision to remove the vendors from the run-down structure in the interest of their own safety.
The new market will house 65 stalls, allowing for accommodation for previous stallholders as well as vendors that ply their trade along the roadway adjacent to the market.
Prime Minister Samuel Hinds has visited the area on several occasions, to scout possible locations for the new market, as well as to meet and interact with the vendors to garner their support with regard to the project’s implementation.
Minister of Local Government, Norman Whittaker, on Friday visited the area and the vendors expressed pleasure at Cabinet’s decision.
The Neighbhourhood Democratic Council (NDC) is currently assessing the applications sent in by vendors to would-be stall owners.
The contract for the market construction has been awarded to C. Dookie and Sons Contracting Services.  (GINA)

Saved in graphics as ‘norman’
Caption:  Minister of Local Government and Regional Development Norman Whittaker with NDC councillors and vendors at the Mahaica market.