by Jerome Pinder
The new Straw Market is nearing completion and it certainly is an attractive building for the landscape of Down Town, Nassau.
However, it is a frightening possibility that the products now sold under the tent may be displayed for sale in the new building paid for by the Bahamian taxpayer. Not to mention the deplorable conditions that have existed in the market over the years.
So what is going to take place at the new Straw Market:
- Will the market be reserved for Bahamians?
- Will we only allow authentic Bahamian products to be sold?
- Can we get rid of the ‘made in China’ products?
- What will the rent be, which will ultimately determine the return on our investment? Or partial return in this case.
- Will we tolerate delinquent tenants?
- Will we stop the sale of counterfeit products?
- Are we going to tolerate the dirt and filth that consumed the old Straw Market?
- And the list goes on…………………
Contrary to their belief, the Straw Market is not owned by the Vendors and it certainly is not an entitlement that is due to them. The Straw Market is owned by the Bahamian People.
It will be interesting to see what takes place over the coming months and whether the appropriate authorities have the will and resolve to properly administer and manage the Straw Market.
As Ivoine Ingraham pointed out, there are always hard working, respectful vendors in our midst. However, it is a sad state of affairs how the old and current markets have been maintained. Does anyone remember when the tent had to be vacated and cleaned out?
Our tax dollars are at work here and we deserve better!
