Protect the sun-lights

Dear Editor,

I wish to publicly condemn the recent theft of the 53 batteries from the solar-lighting system along the Highway 2000 corridor.

These solar-powered lights were the latest, state-of-the-art upgrades that were introduced to help the country reduce its annual cost to generate electricity.

This wholesale theft of these batteries further handicaps Jamaica and keeps us further way from modernising.

I propose that, going forward, the Government:

1. explores purchasing units that don't stick out as solar-powered lights.

2. not publicise the installation of additional units.

3. if possible, embed tracking devices in these units to assist if, god forbid, they are again stolen.

4. provide effective police patrol, and lighting no less, in areas where these lights are installed.

5. gives the courts the power to throw the book at anyone caught and convicted of stealing these batteries, and so send a strong message that this will not be tolerated.

By this we should deter future theft of these energy and money-saving units, which Jamaica desperately needs to help wean ourselves off of the petroleum addiction.

Patrick Callum

patrickcallum@yahoo.com