Nossa Senhora das Neves the patron saint of Joao Pessoa
Today, the 5th of August 2014, is the 429 birthday of the capital city of Paraiba. Joao pessoa is famous for many things. It is the 3rd oldest city in Brazil, the eastern most point of the Americas and it is renowned for being the greenest and most beautiful city in Brazil.
Today many of the celebrations center around the patron saint of the city, Nossa Senhora das Neves, which was also the first name given to the city as it grew up on the banks of the river Sanhauá.
The city has had a number of names since 1585 as it has been colonized by different countries, as well as Nossa Senhora das Neves, it has also been known as Frederikstad when under Dutch control, later renamed Paraiba and finally was given the name Joao Pessoa in 1930.
The Ministério Público Federal (MPF) is calling for the immediate closure of 5 bars/restaurants at the tourist attraction “Praia do Jacaré”.
It is reported that in 2011 the 5 business were given 30 days notice to close. In an effort to find a negotiated solution, both the time limit and fines were suspended, but now some 3 years later enforcement procedures are being implemented as it is claimed, there has been little effective progress in finding a settlement.
Praia do Jacaré is one of the most popular tourist attraction in Paraiba and local business are claiming that if MPF get their way and close these restaurants, the cost to the local tourist economy and jobs will be massive.
The authorities have given two reasons for the evictions. Firstly, it is claimed that the businesses are illegal as they are unlicensed and secondly, that they have a negative environmental impact.
Similar measures have been taken at Praia do Poço and Praia de Intermares where a number of beach bars have been removed, there are plans to close and remove 23 more business that are still being processed through the court system.
