Scrap metal dealers upset

Some scrap metal dealers are restive and fear they could lose millions of dollars in the wake of the government’s latest shut down of the industry.



On Tuesday, Industry Minister Karl Samuda announced that he was suspending the exportation of scrap metals due to the increasing incidence of theft.



Jerry Gardener, who operates a scrap metal establishment, is growing impatient with the increasing volume of material on the ground and no means of getting it out of the country.



The industry, which has been around for more than 15 years, has provided employment for several Jamaicans especially in the Riverton city area of St. Andrew.



Aston Bailey, who has been in the business for as long as it has existed, said he is worried about his employees as they are all seeking answers from him.



The exportation of scrap metal was also halted in October last year, to allow for the trade to be regulated in light of the reported incidents of theft.