Protests will hinder electricity restoration, Energy Minister cautions residents

 

Energy Minister Daryl Vaz is appealing for patience from residents still without electricity.

 

There have been demonstrations in several communities resulting in blocked roads by residents protesting the length of time it is taking to have electricity restored to their areas.

 

Two consecutive days this week residents blocked the Junction main road in St. Mary, clamouring for the service to be restored.

 

Energy Minister Daryl Vaz says the demonstrations are proving to be counter productive. 

 

"I'm fully aware first-hand of the pain and suffering of the people. I'm fully aware of the demonstrations taking place in several communities. I take this opportunity to assure the residents that I hear the pleas and I see the frustration. But in truth, these demonstrations will not help, they will hinder," he cautioned. 

 

The minister noted that the demonstrations have resulted in the Jamaica Public Sevice Company (JPS) requesting leave to avoid certain areas for fear of safety of its teams.

 

"These demonstrations will only serve to put your communities further down on the list for restoration by the JPS as they will think of their safety and that their teams are at risk. I assure that I am in contact with all 62 MPs and the Cabinet remains committed to ensuring that we hold JPS accountable and effect the timely restoration of electricity to all communities," he sought to assure.   

 

Mr. Vaz was speaking in the House of Representatives on Tuesday.