La Penitence Market vendors complain of “partial” rehabilitative works

While some vendors are welcoming the ongoing rehabilitative works at La Penitence Market, others are lambasting the Communities Ministry for conducting works to benefit itself and not the vendors.

On Tuesday, Guyana Times visited the market when one vendor, M Chunilall, explained that the rehabilitation commenced last week on the administrative section of the Market, in the upper flat which functions as a revenue collection department.
The stallholder described the works as “disappointing” given that other sections of the Market were in dire need of repairs as well.
He said, “They doing the rehabilitation for their purpose; they are not doing it for the stallholders…the office didn’t need all of that repairs”.
Further, the vendor pointed to the roofs on the structure which he claims leak copiously when it rains. As a result, the businessman said he was forced to purchase zinc sheets to have his section made leak-proof as the dripping water caused customers to turn away from his stall.
“We as stallholders like we don’t have no rights. All what we have the right for is just to pay a rent. When water leaks there, if I have a customer here they can’t stay there, they have to move away so when rain falling, I am being affected. The whole place becomes flood up. I got to close and go home. No business!” the man declared.

Although vendors are forced to pack up and leave whenever they are affected by leaks, he said they are still required to pay the rental fees.
Another vendor who asked to remain anonymous explained that the Market has not had any rehabilitative works for about 15 years. As such, he believes it is a step in the right direction.
Meanwhile, Lalta Narine, a clothes vendor, said he was pleased with the works, especially since it has been in an appalling state for quite some time now. But, another male vendor complained of slow business.
In fact, it was observed that several stalls were closed during the visit. The vendors are hopeful that the much-needed repairs to the facility will attract more customers in the near future.

The renovation was confirmed on Monday by Georgetown Mayor Ubraj Narine during a brief interview.
It is not clear at this point whether the entire structure will undergo a facelift or just the administrative department as calls to the Communities Minister Ronald Bulkan went unanswered.
Meanwhile, on Monday, Pamela Khelawan, a vendor, told Guyana Times that rats have infested the Market given that there was no proper waste disposal system.
The merchant is hopeful that better utility services can be provided once the area is completely revamped, as clean water supply and stable electrical units were lacking, making it somewhat difficult to sell produce and other merchandise.
Back in April, projects were tendered for four markets to be upgraded. La Penitence was on the list, with some $14 million set aside to commence the works.
The other structures expecting a facelift are the Kitty, Bourda and East Ruimveldt Markets.