MARGAO: Over 200 bakers and confectionaries from across Goa have formed a new association, the All Goa Bakers and Confectionaries Association (AGBCA), as they feel that the existing associations have been sitting on their demands and not taking up issues with the government.
AGBCA has pledged to take up these issues with the government without agitating or resorting to radical measures. It also claimed that the government had promised the bakers many things, but had not fulfilled the same, sending them to the brink of closure.
Addressing the Press on Wednesday, AGBCA convenor Peter Fernandes alleged that the passive participation of the existing associations in getting justice and help for bakers has landed many in trouble. The association has vowed to help solve the bakers’ problems.
Incidentally, AGBCA will organise a workshop for bakers and related businesses on January 28 at 10 am at the MMC hall. Talks with the Goa State Pollution Control Board and Food & Drug Administration will also be held.
“The Association has observed that the existing associations have not apprised the bakers about the new rules and regulations. To bridge the gap, we are organising the workshop,” said Peter.
He alleged that a deadline to pay fees to the authorities had been set, but the same wasn’t conveyed to the bakers, which has now landed them in trouble. He has also expressed anger over the lack of subsidy from the Government.
