Vaz turns spotlight on telecoms providers
HAVING taken on Jamaica Public Service (JPS) over its performance in the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl, Minister of Science, Energy, Telecommunications, and Transport Daryl Vaz has now turned his attention to the telecommunications and Internet providers.
“I am requesting a report from the Office of Utilities Regulation (OUR) for complaints received regarding disruptions and other related matters relating to our telecommunication and Internet service providers. The report is to include complaints received both before and after the passage of Hurricane Beryl, as there have been ongoing issues with billing, service interruptions, and connectivity that have impacted customers nationwide,” Vaz said in a release issued on Monday.
According to Vaz, he has taken note of growing concerns from the public regarding the quality of service and reliability of Internet and telecommunication service providers following the disruption caused by Beryl.
He noted that telecommunication companies have been providing updates regarding ongoing repairs and restoration efforts, many of which have been delayed due to damage to their infrastructure.
Vaz acknowledged that in several areas the restoration of services by the telecoms providers was further hindered by the need to first restore JPS power supply.
“As of August 29 JPS has fully restored power across its network, and it is anticipated that telecommunication services will soon be fully restored as well,” said Vaz.
“The ministry remains keenly aware of the critical need for reliable and consistent telecommunications and Internet services, especially for industries essential to the functioning of the country. These include hospitals, government services, schools, security forces, as well as private enterprises and households,” added Vaz.
He has urged the OUR to maintain consistent communication with his ministry regarding the steps taken to address complaints related to Jamaica’s telecom and Internet service providers.
“The most persistent challenges must be highlighted, with a focus on improving service quality and customer satisfaction moving forward,” declared Vaz.
He argued that the Government’s commitment is to greater productivity and prosperity for the people of Jamaica.
“This can only be achieved with significant improvements in the quality and reliability of utility services. I encourage the OUR to engage all stakeholders in this process to ensure a thorough and comprehensive report is submitted to the ministry in the shortest possible time,” said Vaz.