The Tribune

By LEANDRA ROLLE

Tribune Chief Reporter

lrolle@tribunemedia.net

SOME Arawak Cay vendors are working out of their vehicles as they await rebuilding approvals after a fire tore through six stalls last month, according to Arawak Cay Conch, Fish, Vegetable and Food Vendors Association president Rodney Russell.

Mr Russell told The Tribune on Friday that stall owners are determined to restart operations even if they receive no outside help.

He said vendors need the Ministry of Works to sign off on their rebuilding plans once they are submitted.

“We're not waiting or depending on anybody to get us started,” he said. “We're not depending on funds from the government or any non-government agency to support us financially to get our business up and running. All we need is the Ministry of Works is to expedite our plans so we can go ahead and get temporary electricity and start the process.”

His business, Red Snapper, was among six stalls completely destroyed in last month’s blaze. Two others were damaged.

Officials have pledged to erect temporary structures within 60 days to house the affected vendors. Meanwhile, some business owners estimate rebuilding their permanent establishments could cost $200,000 or more.

Mr Russell said he cannot account for every vendor’s situation, but he has not seen widespread alarm among those impacted.

He said many are improvising to keep money flowing.

“My neighbors, they come out every day, and they sell water and a little juice and small stuff like that to keep them going,” he said, “but we have persons who are still trying to sell little conch salads and trying to come out and cook from their cars. The most important things is trying to get back into our place.”

Mr Russell said he has managed to stay afloat with help from friends, and he expressed confidence that the rebuilding effort will gain momentum.

“I can assure you that the government is going to make sure that we are facilitated. The government, has every intention to make sure that we're up and running again,” he added.