American Expatriate Costa Rica

San Jose’s council rejects debating about street vendors

The Municipal Council of San José rejected again a motion to debate the topic of street sellers. The petition was introduced by the councillor, Diego Miranda, from the party Frente Amplio.

The petition got three votes in favor and eight against. Miranda claims that is necessary to discuss the issue of street vendors and create an inter-institutional commission to look at alternatives for this activity.

Miranda proposes that informal selling can be organized with permits or in truce zones.

During the Municipal Council session, a group of 60 street vendors protested outside this local institution. The protesters were demanding respect for their right to work. They claimed companies wouldn’t hire them and that they are subject to violent evictions and seizure of merchandise while they’re trying to work on streets.

Enrique Madrigal, one of the informal vendors, said that they’re waiting for mayor Jhony Araya to approve permits for selling articles on streets, as previously they were allowed to do.

Source: Diario Extra.