(Jamaica Gleaner) The Jamaica Public Service Company (JPS), is to appeal yesterday’s Supreme Court ruling that its exclusive licence to transmit and distribute electricity is invalid.
Justice Bryan Skyes ruled that the minister did not have the power to grant the licence to JPS on terms, which prevent other applicants from having their applications being considered.
JPS was granted a 20-year exclusive licence in 2001.
Justice Skyes however ruled that the company’s all-island licence was improperly granted by the minister.
However attorney for the JPS, Michael Hylton said his client believes the judge erred and the light and power company will be challenging the decision.
Meanwhile, reacting to the court ruling, President & CEO of JPS, Kelly Tomblin said the light and power company is disappointed with the court’s decision.
Tomblin said the JPS is reviewing the ruling to determine the full implications.
She said the light and power company will continue to focus on meeting the needs of customers during what she says is an important time in Jamaica’s history.
The JPS and the Government have been ordered to pay legal costs.
The claimants in the case are Dennis Meadows, Betty Ann Blaine and Cyrus Rousseau.
