JPS should reconsider discontinuing cheque payments

THE EDITOR, Madam:

Jamaica’s progress may be hindered if we persist with the current trend of addressing issues by doing away with them. Take, for instance, a recent development. I received a letter from the Jamaica Public Service stating that they would no longer accept cheques as a payment method for bills. Instead, they would now exclusively accept credit or debit cards, online payment methods, and cash. It’s worth noting that Jamaica Public Service holds a monopoly as the power provider in the country.

Instead of completely discontinuing the use of cheques as a viable payment option, I believe it’s crucial to recognise that cheques still hold legal tender status in Jamaica. Given that bill payments are essentially direct payments for services rendered, refusing cheques appears to be unfair. Consequently, I am urging the Consumer Affairs Commission to look into this and address the issue.

CARLTON FEARON

Brumalia, Mandeville

Manchester