Street Vendors Eye ‘Flexible Solution’ for Christmas Trade

Street vendors are pushing for a “flexible solution” to allow them to operate across the island, including the capital Port Louis, during the crucial Christmas and New Year holiday period.

The issue of street vendors’ presence ahead of the festive season has once again become a central focus of debate, prompting an inter-ministerial body to address the matter.

Representatives for the vendors are arguing for a balanced approach as the year-end celebrations approach.

Vendor spokesperson, Salim Muthy, confirmed he is in contact with the Mayor of Port Louis, as well as several ministers and MPs, to finalise a flexible proposal.

This aims to enable street vendors to work during the holidays not only in Port Louis but also in other regions of the island, while adhering to existing regulations and procedures.

Key Meeting Scheduled

Mr Muthy announced he is scheduled to meet with relevant ministers this Thursday, November 13, to specifically discuss the situation of vendors operating on Desforges Street.

He added that a list of the traders involved has already been drawn up and will be submitted to the government in the coming days.

“We want to work with respect, without disrupting traffic or disturbing the shops,” Mr Muthy stated. “The end-of-year festive period is a tradition, a genuine folklore, and we want to participate with dignity.”

Sole Source of Income

The spokesperson stressed the economic necessity of the trade for many vendors, noting that for a large number of them, street vending remains their sole source of income and only livelihood, particularly during this vital period.

Vendor representatives have also convened amongst themselves in an effort to find common ground on the issue.

Source: Le Mauricien