12 October 2004 Press Release Hawkers could be arrested Johannesburg Metropolitan Police today confirmed that the planned march by hawkers tomorrow is prohibited and advised them against marching without approval as they face possible arrest. "It is their democratic right to march and to do so peacefully provided that they have permission", said Mayoral Committee Member for Finance and Economic Development, Councillor Parks Tau. Hawkers intend showing their dissatisfaction with the City by marching to the Yeoville Recreation Centre where Executive Mayor Councillor Amos Masondo will be addressing the community. Joburg is presently rolling out 1000 trading sites in the first phase of trying to accommodate hawkers however hawkers are not prepared to pay for them. "Extensive consultation took place on the design and suitability of stalls", said Tau. He said, "We are mindful of people's livelihood and support informal trading but this must take place within the framework of our vision to build a world class city". Hawkers are unhappy with current law enforcement and have demanded a moratorium that the City refuses to accede to. They say that they are harassed, goods confiscated and never returned. Joburg maintains that there are 27 no trading and prohibited areas of which hawkers have been informed of in the regular monthly meetings. Tau said, "Name tags or vehicle registration numbers must be taken down when reporting harassment or misconduct by Metro police to make investigation quicker". Ends Virgil James Media Liaison Officer Communications Telephone: 407 7226 Facsimile: 403 3494 Cell: 082 467 9415 Email: virgilj@joburg.org.za