Minister Daryl Vaz provided a national update on Jamaica’s energy recovery and reform efforts following Hurricane Melissa. He reported that 99% of JPS customers, about 681,000 out of 690,000, have had their electricity restored, with just over 8,600 customers still without power, mainly in Westmoreland and St. Elizabeth. Crews are working daily, and most remaining areas are expected to be restored by April. The Government also confirmed that it honoured its commitment to support JPS with a US$150 million loan to speed up restoration. On electricity reform, work is advancing on a new electricity licence framework set for 2027, with structured negotiations underway and alternative options being prepared if needed. Offshore oil and gas exploration by United Oil and Gas has been completed, with samples now being tested overseas and results expected in two to three months. Additionally, the Government has committed $852 million in grants under the National Energy Poverty Reduction Programme to help nearly 3,000 affected households rewire and recertify their homes. Minister Vaz also noted that global tensions in the Middle East are pushing up international oil prices, and Jamaica continues to monitor the potential impact on local fuel costs.(Andrew Holness)