Vendors forced to sell on sidewalks

Accuse cops of destroying property

Rasbert Turner, Star Writer

The rural township of Old Harbour, St Catherine, has inadequate space for vendors and motorists. The town's market is full.

Vendors who want to sell in the Old Harbour market are unable to because it is full.

This has resulted in the police destroying the property of persons allegedly involved in illegal vending.

"It is very sad as, even last night, the police just drive on the road and kick over jerk pan and other goods then say, 'no vending'," Marigold Britton said.

There was a general concern by vendors that they are forced to the sidewalk and shopping centre as there is nowhere else to go.

"It is time that they extend or fix the market that we can sell there. They could even put stalls in there to make vending more humane," Michael said.

The problem has had a negative effect on persons traversing through the town.

There is a constant traffic-regulating problem along East Street, South Street and the entire township, forcing pedestrians to hopscotch, to and fro.

"There is a new senior policeman here, but I think his approach is too abrasive. There needs be a better understanding here for all to exist," Mathew Reed said.

The police said anti-vending regulations will be enforced as persons need to vend in designated areas, not on the streets.

The St Catherine Parish Council said whereas work is to be done on the market, vendors on the streets must obey the law.