OCHI VENDORS WARN OF PROTESTS IF…
Craft vendors were in a militant mood on Thursday morning, May 9, at a press conference in Ocho Rios, St Ann.
The craft traders from eight markets in and around Ocho Rios set a date of May 22 for the authorities to meet with them and discuss their complaints or face demonstrations.
(Craft vendors at the press conference in Ocho Rios)
The complaints included run-down and poorly maintained markets; lack of business from cruise ships and all-inclusive hotels, and unauthorized traders taking their business, using cheap imported craft.
They also had several issues of complaints about the renewal of their licences and tenure in the stall they rent from the Urban Development Corporation (UDC). The vendors said they are refusing to sign new arrangements being put to them by the UDC to allow them to get their licences from the Tourism Product Development Company (TPDCo).
(President of the Ocho Rios CraftTraders Association Mossana Martin, right, making a point. At left is Devon Mitchell President of the Dunn’s River Craft Traders Association)
The press conference was organized by People’s National Party’s Caretaker for North East St Ann in which most of the markets fall, Dr Ryan Simpson. He said the vendors had asked him to help highlight their plight. He said it was a call to action which if not dealt with could have “adverse and substantial impact of the US$4.4 Billion tourism industry.
Also speaking were Devon Mitchell, President of the Ocho Rios Craft Council and President of the Dunn’s River Fall and Park Craft Association; Mossana Martin, President of the Ocho Rios Craft Association and Clare Pink Bruce, President of the Pineapple Craft Vendors Association.
Throughout the presentations by the leaders, craft vendors made comments and chants approving the positions taken.
What will happen if the ultimatum is not heeded? Watch as Devon Mitchell answers:
