Acting PM Vetoes Minister Turner’s Efforts on Vending in St Johns

In a surprising turn of events, vendors operating near the V.C. Bird Bust, the Fisheries Complex, and Lower St. John’s City have been granted permission to continue their operations.

Acting Prime Minister Steadroy Benjamin made this announcement on Wednesday, overriding a decision made by Minister Rawdon Turner.

The St John’s Development Corporation had previously announced that starting April 17, 2025, all vending operations would need to relocate to designated areas within the vegetable section of the Public Market Complex.

This complex, which consists of both northern and southern sections, has a total of ninety available spots for vendors.

In a notice signed by City Manager Carolyn Thomas-Parker, it was made clear that vending would no longer be permitted in popular areas such as the V.C. Bird Bust and Heroes Park, as well as the Fisheries Complex and Lower St. John’s City.

Additionally, sidewalk vending was declared strictly prohibited.

However, Acting Prime Minister Benjamin’s veto of this decision allows the current vendors to maintain their positions, setting the stage for ongoing discussions about the future of vending in these key areas.