PNP urges government on JPS increase

The People’s National Party (PNP) is urging the government to ensure that Jamaica Public Service customers are not affected by the company’s recent $2.3 billion settlement with workers.



The PNP is predicting that the agreement signed between unions and the JPS on Tuesday, regarding a Job Evaluation and reclassification exercise at the company could result in increases for consumers.



Opposition Spokesman on Energy, Michael Peart, said Energy Minister, Clive Mullings and the Office of Utilities Regulation (OUR) should ensure that that JPS is not allowed to recover the full cost of the settlement in the short term.



He said the OUR needs to ensure that these costs are not passed on to the consumers, who are already burdened with escalating food and fuel costs.



Mr. Peart said the opposition eagerly awaits the Government’s Energy Policy due in June of 2008.



He wants the government to begin an islandwide campaign on energy conservation.