Fruit and vegetable vendors are expected to resume their trade in a matter of days, as the Markets Division in the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security continues to work tirelessly to complete the facilitation of vendors, under the COVID-19 restrictions.
This follows the announcement by Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley, last weekend, that vending would be permitted under new arrangements to be determined by the Markets Division. The Barbados Association of Retailers, Vendors and Entrepreneurs was included in that process.
According to Manager of Markets, Sherlock King, each vendor would be designated a space from which to operate.
The spaces have been clearly marked to ensure a distance of 12-feet between each vendor. This is in accordance with the COVID-19 public health recommendation to practise social distancing.
Given the large number of vendors who operate at Cheapside, arrangements have been made for them to be accommodated in the nearby van stand and Jubilee Gardens.
Vendors will also be required to prepackage produce for sale; wear masks and gloves; have hand sanitizer and ensure the cleanliness of the work areas. Additionally, they have been advised to deal with one customer at a time, so as to prevent crowding.
They have also been reminded to remove any tables, trays, tents and other materials used during the working day, before they leave the site.
Meanwhile, both vendors and members of the public have been advised that the only fruit and vegetable markets that would be in operation are the Cheapside, Palmetto Street and Marhill Street markets.
These facilities have been scheduled to operate Tuesday to Saturday, from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., while vending from outdoor stalls will be permitted from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Monday to Saturday.