Minister for Industry, Trade, Tourism, Local Government, Housing and Community Development Premila Kumar says she is proud of the Rakiraki Market.

“With Rakiraki Town I’m very proud of the market it really stands out. It also gives the town a good feel factor,” Mrs Kumar said.

“You can notice in Rakiraki when you move around you can see they’re all smiling and looking forward to the opening of the new market,” she said.

“From the council’s perspective they have never owned any asset. This is the first building to be owned by the Rakiraki Town Council.

“With this they will be able to generate revenue and revenue is needed for more development for the town.

“This market does not only benefit the council and vendors but the community as a whole.

Inside the new Rakiraki Market. Photo: Susana Tuilau

The council is expecting to open the market in a few weeks.

“We are just waiting for the certificate of completion. If we get the certificate this week we can open the market the following week. So we’re looking at the first week of March.”

The minister had a meeting with the Rakiraki Vendors Association to discuss a few concerns.

Minister for Economy Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum was in Rakiraki a few weeks back and during his tour suggested some variations to the new market.

“The meeting went very well. I must say that the ratepayers here are very considerate. They take both sides into consideration and not just from their perspective,” she said.

“We discussed two subjects. One was they don’t want tiles in the market and they want the market floor to be polished. The other one was they wanted the tables to remain as is.

“We are taking the A-G’s suggestions into consideration. I saw and understood why he made those suggestions as well.

The council will have their lottery draw for the vendors places in the new market coming Tuesday.

Feedback: susana.tuilau@fijisun.com.fj