Vinlec protest marches called off

Organizers of the weekly marches against the St. Vincent Electricity Services (VINLEC) on Tuesday issued a statement that they have suspended protest action – for now.{{more}}

The press statement, signed by Clemroy Bert Francois, said that the decision was taken “in light of the fall of the fuel surcharge rate to approximately 45 cents per unit.”

The release stated that the reduction in the fuel surcharge rate was past due and was not because of the actions of VINLEC, but rather the fall of the cost of fuel on the world market.

While calling for the electricity supplier and the Government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines to explore ways to deal with the eventuality that oil prices may increase once again, protest organizers are still demanding that the fuel consumption be removed and that the company’s operations be monitored.

Protest action against VINLEC began about two months ago, with marches on the company’s headquarters in Paul’s Avenue, along with a rally in the Grenadines and at this year’s Independence celebrations. (JJ)