Interviews and photos
by Dacia Whaul
Concerns have been raised yet again about repackaged goods being sold without proper labelling and with the packaging done under unhealthy conditions. This week we asked the man and woman in the street whether they would support a ban on such repackaged products or whether they would endorse the relevant authorities enforcing the requirements of repacking products. Their comments follow:
Rhea Sandy, student – ‘No I would not support it, because the poor people of this country will suffer tremendously under such imposed ban. Unfortunately most Guyanese can’t even afford a proper meal for their kids now. How are they going to cope if a ban is put in place? A better option might be ensuring that safe practices are observed by businesses repackaging.’
Linden Isles, public servant – ‘I would more support the enforcement by the relevant authorities to ensure that those less fortunate can still be able to enjoy the products that are repackaged in a quantity suitable for their pockets, which if were in bulk would have not been a choice.’
Jarelle Branford, medical doctor – ‘Health wise, I can see the concerns of the method used in repackaging. However, those who do not have the finance to purchase big portions, will feel the weight of the ban. Since the smaller repackaged portions meet the demands of the lower income families. I say that while noting that the Health Ministry’s Government Analyst Food and Drug Department will have to continue its enforcement of the requirements of repackaging.’
Marlyn Greene, retired public servant – ‘I prefer that the persons repackaging products get their acts together and ensure that they put the necessary requirement in place. Remember roaches and other bugs pose a big health risk and can kill people. Another thing is the omission of expiry date.’
Princess Duke, pensioner – ‘You don’t have to ban it, because people have to be able to buy what they can afford. All the authorities need to do is to make those repackaging obey the law. The repackaging is a convenience to so many who experiencing hardships.’
Calvin Holder, self-employed – ‘I wouldn’t support a ban. Rather I say let the business persons repackaging do the right things and eliminate the safety concerns of the consumer. For example, proper label on the goods and repackaging them in a hygienic place. If it is banned what will happen to the average man?’
Conrad Boule – ‘Once those repackaging do the right thing, there is no need for a ban. Not everyone can afford to shop at the wholesale store in Guyana. So all we need is the enforcement of the laws by the authorities and the compliance of those desirous of repackaging.’
Henry Sarabo, stall owner – ‘The repackaged items such as rice flour and sugar will reach the small segment of a community who cannot afford more. If you take away that, you take away part of the way of life of the small man. Moreover, the Food and Drug Department is responsible for ensuring that those repackaging comply with the requirements.’
Wesley Martins, entrepreneur – ‘I think it is natural that we meet everybody’s pocket and needs. When repackaging, all that is needed is the businesses repackaging to provide proper labelling and so on, as well as being honest when it comes to the expiration of the products. So no I would not say ban over health concerns.’
James Fernandes, self-employed – As long as it is safe for human consumption, there is no need for a ban if a call arises. Repackaged products, as long as it is being labelled and put together in a healthy environment serves a community that cannot otherwise afford certain products.’
