Port-of-Spain: The Mayor’s Office has told vendors preparing to sell food and drinks in the city during Carnival revelry Monday and Tuesday, that their stalls will be shut down if random checks prove non-compliance with health standards.
Debra Lee Persad who represented the Mayor’s office at a news conference today, said band leaders will also face strict penalties for any breaches during the Carnival season.
Persad said random visits will be made by members of the Port-of-Spain City Corporation to food vendors, Carnival bands, eating venues and drinks trucks.
These officers will be empowered to immediately shut down non-compliant vendors.
David Lopez, the President of the National Carnival Bands Association has also warned that action will be taken against band leaders who overstay their time on the big stage.
This is the first time in two years that masqueraders are allowed to cross a stage at the Queen’s Park Savannah.
Officials believe the eagerness by bands to make the best of the moment could create congestions as other bands line up for their turn.
