A better deal?

THE EDITOR, Madam:

The Jamaica Public Service (JPS) is now obligated to repay the US$150 million Government of Jamaica (GOJ) loan plus another US$200 million loan from other lending agencies. Is it that this set of scenarios not lead the JPS to increase the electricity bills of its customers in the future?

It seems that instead of the JPS seeking that large loan from the GOJ the power company should have considered offering some its shares to the GOJ in exchange. They could have also ensured that they retained controlling interest in that entity.

The current JPS licence is due to expire in 2027 if it is not renewed by the GOJ how will the JPS remain in a viable position to service its debt to the government and to other lending agencies?

Given this, when the JPS licence renewal comes up in 2027 the GOJ will be doing itself, the citizens of Jamaica and the JPS a great disservice if the licence is not renewed for at least five years.

PATRICK GALLIMORE

pagalley@protonmail.com