Make opportunities for informal markets – analyst

Director of the Institute of National Affairs Paul Barker says the implementation of the informal sector policy in towns and cities is an issue that has not received enough support over the years.

As a result informal markets in places like Lae had got out of hand.

He says Lae suffers from lack of opportunity for proper markets, both formal and informal.

Barker says street sales have become overcrowded and as a result people use this as a cover to carry out petty crimes like pocket picking, bag snatching and others.

He suggests the provincial government work in partnership with the national government to provide more opportunities for people in the informal market sector.

“Not only should they provide opportunity but properly planned to be effective and safe for every user,” he says.

Barker says Alotau in Milne Bay and Kokopo in East New Britain provide the best examples of how informal sector markets can be managed.

He says communities should not divide into their ethnic groups but the leaders should unite with local authorities to address opportunities for markets that can used by everyone.

Morobe people and residents of Lae City who protested yesterday have called for the removal of street vending.

Author: 
Joy Kisselpar