MEA councillors split on whether young street traders face exploitation or gain essential experience

Mid and East Antrim councillors have deferred a decision on a revised street trading policy following debate at the borough council’s Neighbourhoods and Communities Committee meeting at The Braid in Ballymena on Tuesday evening.

A committee report noted the council currently has a “small number” of streets designated for street trading.

The proposed street trading policy outlines fees, conditions, and enforcement measures. The council can issue three types of licence – mobile, stationary, and temporary.

Proposed terms and conditions for mobile licences include additional requirements on the use of chimes. Food vendors must also hold a food hygiene rating of at least three.

The report further stated that council officers may seize goods if unlicensed trading is suspected, although any items seized will be returned to their owner.

Under the proposed revised policy, street traders may employ anyone to assist in their business provided they are “over the legal school-leaving age”.

Bannside Ulster Unionist Councillor Jackson Minford raised concerns, saying:

“Quite often you see someone behind a stall of school age.”

Patricia Allen, head of public protection, health and well-being, responded:

“They should not be acting as an employee and would be challenged if observed being part of a sales process. We have to investigate if there is any money changing hands. It is not an opportunity for exploitation of young workers.”

Carrickfergus Castle DUP Alderman Billy Ashe MBE said:

“One of the things we are struggling with in this world is getting young people experience in work. I can clearly see why we do not want to be going into exploitation but young people have to get a chance to learn.

“Markets are family affairs. It is not anything other than that. The young people have to get an opportunity to run the business. We always have to remember about that.”

Ms Allen acknowledged there was a distinction between work-shadowing and employment, adding:

“Maybe we need to look at it again and come up with some additional wording.”

Coast Road Ulster Unionist Alderman Maureen Morrow, drawing on her experience of running markets, said:

“You get a lot of different scenarios – young people who are fund-raising for the school or school trip.

“It is good to have enterprising young people. It gives them an opportunity to build their skills. It seems a shame that young people can’t get this opportunity to maybe start an enterprise.

“There is an opportunity to run businesses and give children opportunities to get experience and build confidence to run businesses in the future.”

Committee chair Braid TUV Councillor Matthew Warwick added:

“We need to not quell enterprise spirit in teenagers and our youth.”

Ballymena Independent Councillor Lawrie Philpott then proposed deferring the matter. The motion was seconded by Alderman Morrow, who said:

“I think we should hear what way it is worded before we go ahead.”