8 more scrap iron inspectors to be hired

THE Ministry of Trade, Investment and Tourism will soon appoint eight new scrap iron inspectors.

In a news release on December 17, the TT Scrap Iron Dealers Association (TTSIDA) president Allan Ferguson said the pledge was made following the association’s meeting on the same day with Minister of Trade, Investment and Tourism Satyakama Maharaj, parliamentary secretary Dr Neil Gosine, a team of ministry officials and other stakeholders.

The meeting took place at the ministry, Nicholas Towers, Port of Spain.

The release said, “During this meeting, issues relating to the number of scrap metal inspectors and illegally operating yards were discussed. In response, the minister indicated that a note will be taken to Cabinet to approve the appointment of eight additional inspectors to meet the demands of the industry as a short term measure.

It added, ”The minister and his team also agreed to establish a working group which will comprise of members of our association, other stakeholders and members of the ministry. This group is expected to be established as soon as possible.“

Ferguson said the meeting was cordial and he is pleased with the outcome.

He, however, urged the minister not to allow the meeting to be another “talk shop” but one that will bear tangible outcomes.

He pledged the TTSIDA’s willingness to work with the minister, his team and the government “in the best interest of all.”