MIDDLE QUARTERS, St Elizabeth - MORE than 40 shrimp vendors in Middle Quarters St Elizabeth are now under going Team Jamaica training, as part of a $3 million Jamaica Social Investment Fund (JSIF) Rural Economic Initiative (REDI) programme being implemented in the community.

The training programme which is being conducted by the Tourism Product Development Company (TPDCo) began last month will come to an end within another week.

Topics covered under the programme include self-esteem, customer care, history and cultural awareness.

The vendors are also soon to be outfitted with uniforms and will further receive training in business development, food handling and preparation.

Another aspect of the JSIF's initiative for the community will be the erection of sign boards in the village square.

Plans are also in place to create designated vending areas for the vendors, rest rooms and parking facilities by the middle of next year.

"The Middle Quarters Shrimp Village should complement the Jamaican tourism product by providing an experience that appeal to every sense," Member of Parliament for the area Dr Christopher Tufton told the Observer West. "It is also intended to promote growth and development in the tourism sector, enhancing the overall tourist experience in the South Coast, and providing for the sustainable development of the unique tourist product," he added.