TEAM HERALD
CALANGUTE: Expressing displeasure over the new beach shack policy for 2013-14, Goan Traditional Shack Owners Association (TGTSOA) has urged the State government to revert back to the 2012-13 policy, which was formulated based on recommendations of the High Court.
Opposing the three-year duration, TGTSOA claimed that it could deprive genuine shack owners the right to earn and make a living. TGTSOA has also impressed upon the government to do away with Clause 1 of the policy which categorizes shack owners and goes against the directives of the High Court. It has also demanded a draw of lots to decide the winners accordingly.
“The present beach shack policy 2013-14 somehow benefits and suits a few who get a complete monopoly on the prime and lucrative beach slots on the beaches in the State,” stated TGTSOA President Manuel Cardozo in a letter to the Tourism Director.
“A person with an experience of 10 years or above will choose the best spot, like for example Saunta Vaddo, Calangute, while others may not get a better spot and will struggle to make a living. The best option for the Tourism Department will be to follow the directives of the High Court (2006-07 and 2009-10) so that there is no injustice on any genuine shack owner,” stated the letter.
“The State government’s decision to go in for a three-year policy will displace many genuine shack owners depriving them of a livelihood. We will appreciate if the State government and Tourism Department reverts back to the 2012-13 policy which was formulated based on recommendations of the High Court,” added the letter.
When contacted, Calangute MLA Michael Lobo tersely commented that the present policy for three years is a good one, but agreed to give a sympathetic consideration to the demands like categorization and draw of lots of TGTSOA members.
“We however cannot satisfy everyone and there will be ups and downs for a good decision,” added Lobo..
The present beach shack policy 2013-14 somehow benefits and suits a few who get a complete monopoly on the prime and lucrative beach slots on the beaches in the State
— TGTSOA chief Manuel Cardozo
