[dropcap]O[/dropcap]ffering an up-beat and optimistic message, Mayor Peterson D. Francis committed to better conditions and brighter days ahead for vendors plying their trade within the City of Castries.
The pronouncements by Mayor Francis came as he delivered the opening remarks at the launching of a three-day training session for vendors.
The training which is being conducted in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism through the OECS Regional Tourism Competitiveness Project, aims to sensitize vendors with a particular focus on the activities relevant to the redevelopment of Castries and the Central Market.
The workshop will also focus on building the skills of vendors in Tourism Product Development and Marketing; Environmental Health and Food Safety; Sanitation and Hygiene; Quality Standards, Product Presentation, Labelling, Business and Product Quality and Customer Relations.
Speaking at the ceremony, His Worship Peterson D. Francis urged vendors to take advantage of the opportunities while highlighting that his overall goal is to revitalize Castries to bring economic benefits to all vendors.
Mayor Francis, furthermore, took the opportunity to reaffirm support for city vendors following a recent disagreement over the removal of hazardous stalls and other items from the city sidewalks.
“I will use this occasion through you to apologize to the affected vendors. My sincerest apologies. We have a keen interest in you and what you do, and have always worked in your interest”.
Mayor Francis have agreed to waive vending fees for one week for as a result and have guaranteed vendors that the CCC will offer great improvements in the coming months for the benefit of both vendors and the wider public.
