the Black River District, he will, for the benefit of the House, obtain information as to – (a) the number o…
(No. B/1218) Mr B. Babajee (First Member for Savanne & Black River) asked the Minister of Local Government whether, in regard to the Black River District, he will, for the benefit of the House, obtain information as to – (a) the number of markets in operation thereat, if any, and (b) whether consideration will be given for the – (i) construction of a new market on the west coast and issue permits in relation thereto, and (ii) search for a private partnership to start the operation of a temporary market on Saturdays or Sundays thereat.
Madam Speaker, I am informed that there is presently no market in operation within the administrative area of the Black River District Council. A plot of land has already been identified at Bambous near Winners and vested into the District Council of Black River in July 2024. The preliminary design has been finalised and a quantity surveyor will be appointed to prepare the preliminary cost estimate. In this financial year, an amount of Rs1 million has been earmarked for payment of consultancy fees. Madam Speaker, with regard to part (b) (ii) of the question, I have already instructed the District Council of Black River to issue an expression of interest to invite proposals for the setting up of a temporary market fair pending the construction of the market fair by the Council. I also wish to highlight that in the past, Médine had tried to operate a market fair for vegetables but had to close down due to low customer turn out and poor accessibility as the site was located far from the main road. Thank you.
Thank you. Yes, Mr Babajee!
May I know from the hon. Minister as to an estimated time for when the market will be fully operated?
Madam Speaker, I wish to inform the hon. Member that the proposed Market Fair at Bambous, the Council will have to invite bids on design and build basis by
71 April 2026 and the contract for the construction works will be awarded by July 2026 and the work may be completed by October 2027.
Thank you. AMAURY VILLAGE – BUS ROUTE NO. 222 – PROVISION OF BUS SERVICES