Rethink treatment of vendors

THE EDITOR: The world appears to be resting on the edge of an economic precipice made increasingly worse by the covid19 epidemic. In light of ongoing massive unemployment, people are unable to fulfil their financial obligations. Hence world governments are encouraging innovative and creative ways for citizens to survive.

Here in TT we have not been insulated from economic shortfalls. Therefore it is foolhardy to discourage vending activities, especially with the economic situation in the country today.

Do the politicians really care about the plight of the common man? Are they really concerned about stimulating economic growth? It has always been said that the small businessman is the true driver of the economy. Do our politicians know this or do they simply feign ignorance?

It would appear that the agenda is to keep the poor in a permanent state of helplessness. To this extent a super dependency syndrome is created whereby the poor and vulnerable rely on the Government for food cards and other forms of social assistance in exchange for their political support.

Many people may unfortunately turn to a life of prostitution, drugs and crime if they are not encouraged to help themselves in legal ways. What would Jesus say if he was here today? He would obviously chastise those who are keeping the poor in a hapless condition.

Vending has always been a form of self-employment through which people have been able to buy groceries, pay rent, maintain a vehicle and send their children to school. Therefore, vending needs to be encouraged so that the people would be able to assist themselves and would not be liabilities of the State.

LINDSEY RAMPERSAD

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