THE new Betel-Nut Ordinance 2016 which will soon be passed by the Honiara City Council (HCC) has received huge applause from members of the public, following its confirmation by the City Clerk, this week.
Clerk Charles Kelly told the media this week that the ordinance has been completed and is awaiting its unveilingin a full Council meeting, soon.
Speaking to the Solomon Star yesterday, a city resident and betel-nut vendor Fox Waitoro said this is welcoming news for the country.
“As a betel-nut vendor and someone that has been confronted with many issues surrounding betel-nut selling, I think this is good news for Honiara city and the country as a whole,” Mr Waitoro said.
“I know we have been bombarded with many complaints over the selling of betel-nut in the past, and now I salute the new ordinance which will be passed by the council soon,”he added.
He said he looks forward to working closely with the council, especially in conducting awareness to all betel-nut vendors alike.
According to the City Clerk, there will be more awareness about this new ordinance being conducted so that people can fully understand how it works.
“Whilst people have the right to chew betel nut, people must do it responsibly,” Mr Kelly added.
Meanwhile, Mr Waitoro on behalf of other betel-nut vendors said they want to see the council administration and the Law Enforcement team executing their jobs effectively once the ordinance comes into effective.
“Wantok business or any illegal practices that may breach the ordinance must not be tolerated by the HCC, when the law is delivered,” the South Malaita man said.
By RONALD TOITO’ONA
