May 14, 2021 01:43:58 PM Nausori Market is now fully operational, following the Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS) assessment and approval yesterday. Local Government Minister Premila Kumar said the market premises are safe for consumers to buy the essential services, as we approach the lockdown period. Kumar also confirmed that the Makoi Market remains closed until further advice from the Health Ministry and consumers have the option to buy their market produce from the Laqere Market. She is also urging vendors, consumers and ratepayers to exercise responsibility and ensure compliance with COVID-Safe measures at all times. “We cannot put other people’s lives at risk whilst we are out shopping.”
2 May, 2021, 1:12 pm
The Suva bus station was deserted after the
announcement of a full lockdown in the
Suva-Nausori corridor yesterday.
Picture: JOVESA NAISUA
Some relief at last for market vendors. Local Government Minister Premila Kumar says vendors who are unable to sell their produce because of the COVID-19 lockdown or for safety reasons decide to close their stalls, will not be charged for the days they are not at the market.
“We have encouraged the councils to take this step to eliminate financial burden on those markets vendors who are not able to sell any produce and earn a living due to the restrictions or simply for safety reasons,” she said in a statement issued on Friday.
A view of vendors selling their produce at Lautoka market. Picture: BALJEET SINGH/FT FILE
Relief for market vendors
Some relief at last for market vendors.Local Government Minister Premila Kumar says vendors who are unable to sell their produce due to the COVID-19 lockdown or for safety reasons decide to close their stalls, will not be charged for the days they are not at the market.
Vendors urged not to panic
Local Government Minister Premila Kumar has called on municipal market vendors not to panic and stockpile produce.
HealthPlus Diagnostic Centre managing director Keshvi Sukul during the MOU signing. Picture: SUPPLIED
Litia Cava
Former Prime Minister and Fiji Labour Party leader Mahendra Chaudhry. Picture: JONACANI LALAKOBAU/FILE
Former Prime Minister and Fiji Labour Party leader Mahendra Chaudhry says Local Government Minister Premila Kumar is now “resorting to face-saving tactics”.
He said market vendors were asked to make submissions on the proposed Local Government (Municipal Market Regulations).
“It is obvious that the Minister is now resorting to face-saving tactics,” Mr Chaudhry said.
“There is no way our market vendors would be able to meet such exorbitant fees.”
Mr Chaudhry said the Minister must explain how the draft was “leaked” to the Market Vendors Association in the various municipalities.
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