Energy Minister Daryl Vaz has indicated that the government is in discussions with the Jamaica Public Service (JPS) about how the company will finance its restoration efforts, post-Hurricane Melissa.

Mr. Vaz was reacting to reports that the JPS requested an extension of its licence, which would allow it to secure funding.

The current JPS licence expires in July 2027. 

At Parliament’s Public Administration and Appropriations Committee meeting, Permanent Secretary Carol Palmer disclosed that JPS indicated that it had difficulty getting funding due to the short time remaining on the current licence.

There is also concern about the government granting the JPS another licence, as Mr. Vaz previously stated that it would have to be under new terms and conditions.

In a statement today, the minister said the matter is being discussed.