Scrap Metal Dealers Association Opposed Six-Month Industry Ban

SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): The proposal by the Trinidad & Tobago government to impose six-month ban on scrap metal industry has been questioned by the trade body representing scrap metal dealers.

Allan Ferguson, President, TT Scrap Iron Dealers Association (TTSIDA) urged the Prime Minister Dr. Rowley not to implement the closure of industry, originally intended to curb large-scale scrap metal theft incidents. He urged the country’s administration to organize a meeting with the association representatives to discuss ways to protect the industry.

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The Association noted that a rally will be held on the Brian Lara Promenade in Port of Spain by its members to voice their demand. He invited trade unions and other concerned citizens to participate in the protest.

Meantime, the Association extended its support to a ban on export of copper not exceeding two to three months, as a means of curbing scrap iron theft. The regularisation of the industry would put an end to all the problems currently faced by it.

TTSIDA reiterated it concerns over the proposed ban on the industry, saying that it would badly impact people from communities like Beetham and Guanapo who make a living by selling scrap metal from nearby landfills. A ban would lead to rise in crime acts by community members.