Former Prime Minister Criticizes €1.3M Root Pavilion at Riga Central Market
Riga, Latvia – Former Latvian Prime Minister Maris Gailis has sharply criticized teh recently renovated Root Pavilion at Riga Central Market, calling the current setup a ”complete failure.” The pavilion, which underwent a €1.3 million refurbishment, is currently occupied by traders selling what Gailis described as “Chinese Seventh Class Goods” instead of fresh produce.
Gailis voiced his concerns during a discussion on TV24, stating the interior “stand boxes are terrible.” He suggested the issue may stem from rental costs that are too high for vegetable traders, forcing market administrators to fill the space with alternative vendors while awaiting the traditional autumn harvest season. He lamented that the initial plan to prioritize vegetable sales was flawed, requiring potential subsidies and cost-cutting measures.
“Maybe they had to communicate that it would only be for two months,for two months,and in october,November will have those stupid boxes removed,” Gailis said.”They look just miserable! And there will be nice stands, there will be nice ladies or men, and we will buy cucumbers and potatoes.”
the Riga Central Market, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a vital hub for both locals and tourists. The Root Pavilion’s renovation aimed to modernize the space and attract a wider range of vendors, but Gailis believes the current situation undermines the market’s traditional role as a source of affordable, locally-sourced produce.
