Future of bauxite and alumina sector looks promising in Jamaica, says Phillip Paulwell

Jamaica's Member of Parliament Phillip Paulwell opines in the 2019/20 Sectoral Debate in the House of Representatives that the bauxite and alumina sector in Jamaica remains positive as the industry’s future looks promising based on the increasing demand worldwide. He also expressed satisfaction for the recommencement of operations at Jamaica’s Alpart plant under the management of Chinese firm, Jiuquan Iron and Steel Company (JISCO).

“I'm pleased to see renewed life and energy in the towns surrounding the plant. I'm glad with the growing levels of employment and the many corporate contributions to the community. I'm happy for the sharing of technology and training of Jamaicans at Chinese universities. JISCO is indeed making a difference in the Jamaican economy; we are pleased that JISCO has honoured its commitments and I wish them well. We are looking forward to the expansion of the refinery and the installation of new energy system,” he said.

At the same time, Paulwell pointed out the deteriorating financial position of Clarendon Alumina Production (CAP), which he believes could be because of the increasing cost of production at the Jamalco alumina plant.

He said the plant moved to losses last year from its small operating profit in 2016/17. He questioned whether the challenges being faced by 55 per cent share partner Noble Group was affecting local operations.

“I urge proactivity, for the Government of Jamaica to assume greater responsibility to bring those costs down and to make CAP a profitable venture,” he said.

In regards to the resettlement of bauxite lands, Paulwell said the citizens should be resettled with as much ease as they were displaced.

“It is not beyond us to find a solution to this vexed issue,” he stated. In the end, he promised to establish a system that should work on liberating mined-out bauxite lands for productive purposes, including agricultural production and housing, whenever the Opposition forms Government.

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