The Editor, Sir:

The Mayor of Kingston, Desmond McKenzie, who has always executed his duties in an exemplary manner, recently had 'No Vending' signs erected on Clifton Boulevard. They stated that the vendors will be relocated to the Constant Spring Market as at March 31. This left vendors and their patrons in a quandary, questioning his motives, the market being there for over a decade. He, however, met with the vendors on location some time after for discussion.

His actions scream blatant disregard for us, the market patrons. Don't we factor into this, too? Won't we be affected by this arbitrary relocation? Did he consider how disruptive this will be?

Yes, he has the power and authority to make these decisions, and as such, can flex his muscles whenever he is so led, but what about due diligence?

Convenient market

I am a regular patron of the Saturday market where I source my supply of ground provisions and vegetables. It has been embraced by residents in the area and neighbouring communities. It is certainly a convenience, not an inconvenience. Vending is conducted on a vacant, private lot, and the area is kept clean. Garbage is disposed of in bins on an ongoing basis or burnt at the end of the day.

The market does not impede vehicular traffic flow as the vendors are proactive. Patrons are not allowed to make purchases from their vehicles on Clifton Boulevard. Any attempt to do so meets with strong reprimands and instructions to park on the side streets and not to block the free flow of traffic.

His suggestion for the alternate market is preposterous and totally unacceptable! Not everyone owns a vehicle. Commuting to the Constant Spring Market from Roehampton Close, where I live, or anywhere in Havendale, using public transportation is mortifying!

Did Mr McKenzie observe the grime in the gully opposite the market on his visit there, the collection of debris, old washing machines, refrigerators, stoves, mattresses? That's a haven for malaria mosquitoes, a health hazard. Why not focus on that and not our market? Remember, 'if it ain't broke, don't fix it'!

I am, etc.,

JULIET STEELE

36 Roehampton Close

Hallandale, Kingston 8