Free zone conducive to new clients

THE EDITOR, Sir:

It is incumbent upon me to respond to the Letter of the Day on Wednesday, May 18.

As chairman of the Kingston Free Zone, I wish to make it quite clear that efforts have been made to facilitate new clients as speedily as possible. The records will show new clients have successfully achieved operational status in two weeks.

Our success rate on this site is par for the course. A critical component for any operation is to acquire the energy services of the Jamaica Public Service Company (JPS). Mr Courtney Joiles was given a letter on April 6 to take to the JPS to access his own electrical service. However, as of the date of Mr Joiles' letter, JPS has had no such request.

I beg to suggest that this moots the whole question as to whether he was ready for any form of business, let alone manufacturing.

HELPED IN EVERY WAY

It is my sure knowledge that the free zone has gone beyond the call of duty to assist Mr Joiles in every way possible to pursue his goal of starting business in Jamaica.

The free zone is a delicate area with annexation to the wharf. In the pursuit of due diligence, checks have to be made about all who do business in this critical area of our national economy.

I cannot recall a single moment that we have not extended the full courtesy with expediency and the excellent qualities of the free zone to pleasantly satisfy our clients.

With integrity, I expect Mr Joiles to review his sojourn at the free zone and pen a letter of apology and appropriate praise to the staff and executive team of the free zone.

Notwithstanding his misunderstandings, we endeavour to wish him every success in his business pursuits, both here and elsewhere. With malice towards none, we continue to join hands with all returning Jamaicans and other investors who come to our shores to do business.

NEWLYN (NEIL) SEATON

Chairman, Free Zone