VASCO
Several members of the Vasco fish Market led by their president Caridade Pereira marched to the Mormugao Municipal Council (MMC) on Wednesday morning to demand immediate closure of wholesale fish outlets present near the fish market.
Several boat owners were also present along with the fisherwoman to express their support to the demand.
After discussions with the chief officer, they also sought to meet Vasco MLA Carlos Almeida, as they said he had earlier assured that no fish would be sold outside the fish market. Tension subsided only after Almeida intervened and assured action against the wholesalers.
“The MMC had failed in its promise to close wholesalers who were selling fish at gaddas outside fish market. Some wholesalers had no trade licence to sell fish and had license to sell biscuits and soft drinks, but were illegally selling fish in wholesale,” Pereira told media persons.
“Now, MMC is seeking 15 days time and we will wait and watch. If nothing happens then, we will show what women can do and see who is mightier.”
“Those outlets, which have trade licenses to sell other items, are engaged in selling fish and we are unable to sell even one basket of fish a day. They have to be completely stopped. 500 fisherwomen are affected on a daily basis because of them,” said Pereira.
Need 15 days to stop fish wholesalers: MMC chairperson
VASCO: Mormugao Municipal Council (MMC) Chairperson Deepak Naik has sought 15 days to try and stop the wholesalers selling fish near the fish market.
“We have kept our word and took prompt action. Today, there are no migrants selling fish. However, some gaddas are selling fish in wholesale and every time we go for an inspection, they close the gadda and run away. Hence, we cannot attach their goods,” Naik told reporters.
“We have given them a licence, so stopping them immediately is not possible and against the law. We have earlier given them verbal instructions and sent show cause notices. We have to follow a procedure and hence sought 15 days time. We will try and close the wholesalers before February 20,” said Naik.
Permission to wholesalers will be withdrawn: Almeida
VASCO: Reiterating that no fish was to be sold anywhere outside the Vasco fish market, Vasco MLA Carlos Almeida assured the fisherwomen that permission and trade licences issued by MMC to wholesalers would be withdrawn if they did not stop selling fish outside the fish market.
“About 40 days ago, we had promised and we have ensured that no migrants are selling fish anywhere. Now, we have received a complaint that some outlets are selling fish wholesale at gaddas near the fish market. I have told the chief officer to initiate strict action and if necessary, withdraw the licence and permission given to them,” said Almeida.
“The chief officer will initiate action and will do the needful. He has sought time till February 20, as some procedures are to be followed,” Almeida added.
