KINGSTON, Jamaica — Energy Minister Daryl Vaz says the recently announced Hurricane Beryl Relief Programme and statements regarding the issuance of estimated bills by the Jamaica Public Service (JPS) Company Limited is a “start”.

The company’s prompt response followed the minister’s statement in Parliament on Tuesday regarding power restoration efforts post-Hurricane Beryl.

In the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl, which left many Jamaicans without power, Vaz highlighted the urgency of restoring electricity to affected areas. He emphasised the importance of timely and accurate communication between the service provider and the public, particularly concerning billing practices in such critical times.

READ: Upset with its delay in restoring electricity, Vaz launches broadside against JPS

Shortly after the minister’s remarks, JPS issued an advisory regarding estimated bills, ensuring transparency and clarity in their billing processes amidst ongoing restoration efforts. This advisory came in response to reports of some customers still experiencing prolonged outages even three weeks after the hurricane’s passage.

READ: JPS regrets recent billing experience for customers, announces relief programme

“I acknowledge the Jamaica Public Service for their response to the concerns raised in parliament today,” Vaz said. “Their communication demonstrates a start and I believe there are aspects of relief that can be improved and I will be pursuing them with the JPS and the OUR (Office of Utilities Regulation).”

The minister urged affected residents to stay informed through official channels and to reach out to JPS with any concerns or inquiries regarding their electricity service.

He further pleaded for more patience from consumers as the efforts continue to restore normalcy.