Trade Ministry agrees to host symposium with all scrap metal dealers and brokers

Home*Cover Story*News

Trade Ministry agrees to host symposium with all scrap metal dealers and brokers

The Trinidad and Tobago Scrap Iron Dealers Association (TTSIDA) and the Transition Team met with representatives of the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI) to discuss issues affecting the operation of the scrap metal sector under the newly published regulations.

The meeting took place at the office of the MTI, Nicholas Tower, Port-of-Spain. 
Included in the meeting were Permanent Secretary of MTI Mrs. Ayleen Alleyne-Ovid, Deputy Permanent Secretary Mr. Randall Karim, President of TTSIDA Allan Ferguson, Vice President Eros Seejattan and Vice Chairman of the Transition Team Isa Mohammed, among other representative of the MTI and the Scrap Metal industry. 

The Transition Team presented a letter, addressed to Senator Paula Gopee-Scoon, outlining 10 recommendations, identified by TTSIDA, for the smoother operation of the sector.  

Transition Team Secretary, attorney Radeyah Ali, listed the 10 recommendations, which included the appointment of a single point of contact at MTI to address implementation concerns, facilitating smoother approvals for export licenses, and determining a way forward for scrap metal scavengers, who make their living at landfills, and represent one of the most vulnerable groups in our society. 

All parties present expressed their desire to work together towards the smooth and lawful operation of the scrap metal sector. The MTI agreed to host a symposium with all scrap metal dealers and brokers to discuss the process for approvals for export licenses, including all prerequisites under the new act and regulations. The MTI also expressed an agreement in principle to have more regular meetings to ensure the proper functioning of the sector, and to address outstanding concerns raised. 

TTSIDA and the Transition Team remain committed to ensure that all scrap metal collectors and dealers, operate in full compliance of the new regulations, while working with all relevant authorities, to ensure the smooth operation of the industry. We will continue to listen to stakeholders at all levels, to educate, and to make representation where required. Our outreach, education and advocacy efforts will continue, as we work towards a thriving sector, as the foundation of a future sustainable economy.