Following an afternoon consultation with the Ministry of Public Works, sand truck owners, who normally park at the Ruimveldt reserves, have agreed to relocate their trucks.
Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill yesterday met with the truckers at his ministry’s office, according to a release from the Department of Public Information (DPI).
The trucks had previously parked on the state reserve in the vicinity of the Continental agency subsidiary and Torginol Paints Inc. They had affected the daily operations of that company. The dumping of leftover sand had also worsened the situation. Therefore, a ban was imposed earlier yesterday by Edghill, prohibiting sand trucks from operating their business in that area.
A solution was thereafter recommended and agreed upon to have them relocated in the vicinity of the National Hardware (southern side) between the Houston bypass road which would allow them to continue to ply their trade.
Expressing the government’s position on persons who are operating their businesses, Edghill said “This Government wants to ensure that people have economic opportunities, but at the same time we have to maintain law and order.”
Speaking with DPI, sand truck operator Quincy Jones expressed his views on the decision.
“We had a fruitful discussion with the minister, and we were able to reach an amicable solution in terms of the relocation and so far we are happy with the outcome. Now the onus is on us to maintain the area.”
Similar sentiments were expressed by others at the meeting including Terry Hirriman, a sand truck operator, who was pleased with the decision that was made, DPI said. Truckers had said during the meeting that they ply their trade to provide for their families, therefore this decision was welcome.
Edgehill reiterated a stern warning to the truckers that their trucks will be impounded should they fail to comply with the ban that was imposed yesterday morning.
He also reassured that traffic police will be on the ground monitoring the operations of these trucks and ensuring the smooth flow of traffic in the new location.
