The Georgetown Mayor and City Council (M&CC) has moved to reopen the Stabroek and Bourda Markets today, after sanitising the surroundings and installing hygienic facilities.
Firefighters washing the Stabroek Market on Monday
Georgetown Mayor Ubraj Narine, during a virtual press conference on Monday revealed that markets are to be opened from 07:00h to 14:00h. These areas were temporarily closed to ensure that mechanisms were in place to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Other markets in the capital city will be opened for business activities later in the week.
“We will abide by the curfew and measures outlined in Government’s emergency measures. Therefore, food services and restaurants are only for delivery, drive-thru and take away services. Municipal markets and all stall vending with the hours of operation from 07:00 am to 02:00 pm,” Narine said.
In light of the coronavirus threat, the public is asked to wear a mask before entering the market places and practice social distancing to reduce any risk of contraction.
“For caravan operators, please ensure that systems is in place for persons, whereby a sink equipped with potable water and soap. For customers and citizens of Georgetown, please note that facemasks are mandatory to enter inside of the markets. Before you step out to do any such business, please wear a face mask. “
Presently, there are guidelines established for vendors to abide by, regarding the storage of their produce and conduct when tending to consumers.
“Produce must be stored six inches above the ground, regularly sanitise commonly touched surfaces with bleach and water solution. Wearing of masks is mandatory to maintain our safety and that of patrons. All meats be sold in packages and not left in the open air. In the interest of social distancing, non-essential items will not be allowed to be sold,” the Mayor outlined.
Those persons experience flu-like symptoms or those associated with the coronavirus were asked to desist from venturing outside.
“Stay home if you are ill and contact the COVID-19 hotline. Avoid close contact with people who have flu-like symptoms. Ensure that social and physical distancing is a practice at your stalls, caravans and in the markets. Maintain at least two metres distance between yourself and others,” he added.
Mayor Narine would have indicated on Sunday that upon visiting the Stabroek Market, he was appalled with the state of affairs, having noticed large piles of garbage among other things.
On Monday officers of the Guyana Fire Service were tasked with washing sections of the market place in preparation for today’s opening.
