MARKET vendors nationwide can now look forward to formal representation by a registered union, the Guyana Market Vendors Union (GMVU), which was launched Thursday. Speaking during the launch was GMVU President Eon Andrews, who indicated that the union’s intention is to work in the best interest of vendors countrywide.
He added: “For too long vendors have been lacking the respect they deserve as commercial operators, hence we recognised the need to form a union which would represent vendors’ welfare.”
Therefore, the GMVU has been established and comprises market and itinerant vendors in order to provide an efficient, countrywide service for the benefit and welfare of the public.
The union aims to educate members with regard to offering good hospitality and service, while also acting as the official agent on all matters concerning the operation of vendors in Guyana.
Andrews stressed that the union also hopes to provide medical, insurance, hospitalisation and other benefits for members.
“We will assist in many ways…one of our main objectives is to ensure that there is a hassle-free process when it comes to the importation of goods,” said the president of the new vendors’ union.
Meanwhile, in light of the ongoing rift in relations between City Hall and vendors, the union will provide assistance and legal representation to its members appearing before the courts or in any matter where legal competence is necessary.
However, the union said that it hopes to have a cordial relationship with City Hall, while creating formal and legal representation through the union. The GMVU is also looking forward to getting information from City Hall on various issues concerning vendors, as well as being able to approach the council on certain matters.