Technology Minister, Daryl Vaz, is calling for the immediate suspension of scrap metal exportation, noting the setback to telecommunication groups that are left at a disadvantage when their equipment is stolen or damaged by thieves.
Minister Vaz also announced the amendments of several legislations, to increase punishment for violators. On the heels of the most recent instance of fiber optic cables being stolen, in St. Andrew, Vice President and General Manager of FLOW, Jamaica, Stephen Price, raised concerns for the damage this has on customers’ experience and business operations.
During his presentation, he notes the entity experienced a drastic decline in theft in 2017 when a temporary ban was placed on scrap metal trade and exports.
As price calls for more action from able government bodies, Minister of Science, Energy and Technology Daryl Vaz, expressed the government’s intent to execute a ban on copper exports as soon as possible. The Minister offered further reassurance, that thieves will be prosecuted, adding, adjustments to legislation such as the cybercrimes act are being made.
Reporter: Nasika Alliman
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