VENDORS of Bourda Street are against the decision of the Mayor and City Council (M&CC) to have stalls in that area broken down in order to facilitate repairs to the deplorable road.
The main reason for their reluctance is the fear of the losses they will incur while not being able to vend. Many of the vendors expressed their concerns during a press conference at the Critchlow Labour College on Wednesday.
One of the vendors said she has been selling there for over 20 years and within that period the road has been rehabilitated many times but their stalls were not moved. Other vendors shared similar sentiments; however, some of them pointed out that in the past when their stalls were broken down, they would have to rebuild it on their own. “Our stalls are not on the road, so I don’t see why they have to break it down to get to do the work,” said one of the concerned vendors. The vendors said their projected losses are not being considered.
In addition, it was pointed out that the part where they occupy is not a main carriageway so there is no need for them to destroy their stalls. Their claims were supported by President of the Market Vendors Union, Eon Andrews, who said that the M&CC has no respect for vendors.

Despite blaming vendors for being reactionary in approach to things, Andrews called on the Council to show more respect for persons who ply their trade in markets in Georgetown.
In stating their call for respect, vendors said they will not dismantle their stalls unless they have a discussion with the Minister of Communities, Ronald Bulkan. Their belief is that the council cannot be trusted, so they need the assurance of the minister. “We need to know that if we breakdown our stalls, it will be rebuilt,” said one of the vendors who also pointed out that they need a temporary place to ply their trade.
It was however reported that the vendors who occupy Bourda Street will be temporarily moved to Regent Street. Town Clerk, Royston King reportedly said that the area is “unsafe” and “unhealthy” for both the consumers and vendors. It was indicated that the area had not been resurfaced for years and in order for upgrade works to be done, the vendors have to move because it would be harmful for them to remain while repairs are ongoing, said King. The work which is expected to commence in September, will be done by the Ministry of Public Infrastructure. Traffic constables have reportedly been informed about the movement of vendors from the Bourda area to Regent Street.