FLOW yesterday welcomed the announcement by Industry Minister Karl Samuda that the Government this week suspended the export of copper, as well as increased the fines levied against persons who are found in breach of the order.

“We have been advocating this course of action for some time now and we are encouraged by the Administration’s recognition that the matter of copper theft is, in fact, a national security issue which has far-reaching impact outside of our industry. The ongoing theft and vandalism of telecommunications infrastructure severely impacts the country’s economy and compromises the security of all Jamaicans,” said Garry Sinclair, country manager and president for Cable and Wireless Caribbean.

“Over the past three years, we have incurred losses conservatively estimated at J$300 million, as we have had to attend to replacement costs and the additional security of our network; this, in addition to the negative impact on our customers. Many communities across the island have been left without critical services because of repeated acts of theft and vandalism of the copper cables in their areas.

“We therefore commend the Government and also the Jamaica Constabulary Force for supporting us and other affected entities in our attempt to stamp out this scourge on our Jamaican people and on our economy,” said Sinclair.