CHAIRMAN of Region 4(Demerara/Mahaica), Mr. Clement Corlette has explained that the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development would, more likely, collaborate with the Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs) on the issue of roadside vending.

He said the ministry has not had a direct relationship with the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) regarding that matter.
Corlette agreed it is a pressing problem but assured that the ministry and the NDCs are closely monitoring the supervision.
Alluding to speculation that the Annandale Market is being relocated to a tarmac being built, he said he is not aware of such a construction.
However, the vendors were advised, by the ministry and the NDC, to relocate to the Lusignan Market tarmac, also on the East Coast of Demerara, which was constructed some years ago for their use.
TRAFFIC CONGESTION
Corlette said the Lusignan tarmac was put down so that vendors who occupy the roadways would go there and help to alleviate the traffic congestion.
He remarked that illegal roadside selling has been prevalent for quite a while but stringent measures are being taken for the removal of those vending illegally not just in his region but countrywide.
The Chairman said it would be only a short period of time before they are moved to create ease of movement for commuters in the general public.
Meanwhile, Minister within the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development, Mr. Norman Whittaker pointed out that nothing is hidden from the RDC.
He said that the ministry has direct responsibility to ensure the proper functioning of all the NDCs, RDCs and Community Development Councils (CDCs).
The minister advised that the NDCs focus on their work programmes, having been granted their $3M subventions, individually, to add to their rates, taxes and market fees being collected, for completing projects.