THE EDITOR, Sir:
THERE HAS been a proliferation of cellular technology in Jamaica, but due consideration, apparently, has not been given by the relevant authorities to where cellular repeater sites are installed.
The decision to erect a cellular transmitter at a particular location should not be based solely on an understanding between the cellular providers and property owners, but should take into account its effect on people living nearby. In East Central St. Andrew, the citizens of Tarrant Drive feel angry and impotent by the fact that in the middle of their populated residential neighbourhood, Centennial has installed a repeater cellular site in front of 33 Tarrant Drive, which is home to a senior citizen.
Upon examining the repeater cellular's location, it seems no consideration was given to the citizen's right to be informed of major changes that will affect the area and people within it.
Some members of the community have complained that the high noise level generated from a motorised unit on the system is so great that they have had to take sedatives to sleep at night.
One senior citizen who suffers from cataracts claims that she is more uncomfortable because of the glare from the silver tower she faces every time she goes to the front of her house. Representatives from the company have indicated their willingness to paint the tower, but to date this has not happened.
The erection of a tower within this community that is not zoned as a commercial area should be regarded as an infringement of the citizens' right to be comfortable within their private environs.
The Jamaican Government has a moral duty to intervene and assist citizens who are affected, and develop a clear policy framework for the industry as it relates to cellular sites.
I am, etc.,
CLAUDE RIDDELL
Clauderiddell@anngel.com
Kingston
