00:00Port of Spain Mayor Chinua Alain explains to TV6 just how he learned about the proposed closure of the Port
00:08of Spain wholesale fish market in Sealots.
00:10I received correspondence from the Sealots Fish and Folk Association indicating that they were advised by officials from NAMDEVCO of
00:20the intention to vacate and permanently close the Port of Spain wholesale fish market in Sealots and they were advised
00:28that that would happen by June 14th of 2026.
00:32The mayor said he subsequently held discussions with Councillor Janil Frederick and representatives of the association who sought the council's
00:41support in lobbying on their behalf.
00:44These recent developments are really a great cause of concern for the fisher folk who use the facility and all
00:51of the burgesses that reside in Sealots.
00:53That wholesale fish market represents a crucial element of the economic engine in Sealots and plays a critical role in
01:04ensuring that the burgesses of Sealots have a stake in the formal economy.
01:08He added that the facility supports a wide range of businesses throughout Port of Spain and beyond including groceries, hotels,
01:16restaurants and retail vendors warning that its closure could have a negative impact on local economic development.
01:24Today, I have written to the Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, the Minister of Works and Infrastructure, the Chairman and
01:34CEO of NAMDEVCO and the Chairman and CEO of the Port Authority requesting clarification on what the intended future plans
01:42are for the facility and requesting an urgent meeting with the association.
01:47Alain says he is hopeful that any planned closure will be delayed until meaningful consultations take place and measures are
01:54put in place to protect the livelihoods of fisher folk and the economy of the capital city.
02:00Ravishita Wari, Rupnerain, TV6 News.
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