Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness says, the government has no intention of operating the subsea fibre optic cable, and is therefore inviting the private sector to do so.

The government, in partnership with the Trans-America Fibre System-Limited, and other partners, is undertaking a subsea cable initiative, aimed at expanding, securing and upgrading Jamaica’s international fibre optic connectivity.

The initiative is expected to improve the reliability, speed and affordability of broadband internet access, while fostering economic growth.

Dr. Holness said, his administration does not believe in competing with the private sector.

He noted that the government sees the need, to build resilience in the country’s telecommunications network.

The prime minister said, 54 percent of Jamaica’s traffic, goes through one subsea cable, noting that if there is ever a potential weakness, or threat to its resilience, then there would be a loss.

He emphasised, that this initiative puts the government in a position to strategically shape the market, so affordability improves for the average citizen.

Dr. Holness said this investment will bring competition to the telecommunications market.

The letter of intent for the SubSea Cable initiative was officially signed yesterday.