By Eileen Cox
Some time ago this column published a report on the state of the telephone service on the Essequibo Coast, Region 2. As a result, the Guyana Consumers Association was invited to meet directors of Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company. With Mr Puran Ramdas of Vilvoorden, I met Major General (ret’d) Joseph Singh, Chief Executive Officer and General Manager, and Mr Terry Holder on Thursday, July 10. They explain-ed the difficulties being experienced. I now publish a letter that was sent by the company to its customers in Region 2.
“Dear Customer,
“The Company is very aware of the problem being experienced in the installation of the new Wireless Local Loop [W.L.L.] system and of the inconvenience it has caused to you and other customers in the region. Yesterday’s disruption has served to further highlight the issue.
“The W.L.L. is new technology which has been successfully deployed globally. GT&T had properly researched it, taking into account our unique terrain and customer dispersion.
“We must acknowledge that, in the introduction of the system here, as in the introduction of new technologies elsewhere, there have been teething problems and that these have, at your discomfort, taken us a longer time than we would have expected.
“The problem, with the inconvenience it has caused, has been drawn to the attention of the equipment vendor, Airspan, and their technical staff are working assiduously with our engineers to resolve the issues to our mutual satisfaction.
“We understand the concern you have expressed and do appreciate the tolerance and understanding you have demonstrated during your wait for effective service.
“It is our hope that with the work that is being done, the system will soon be stabilized so that you will get the type of service you have been promised and deserve.
“As part of our acknowledgement of the inconvenience caused you, the Company has decided that you will not be billed for the installation of the W.L.L. system until, you, the customer, and the Company are satisfied with the stability of the service.
“Once again, we would wish to express our appreciation for your tolerance and to ask that you bear with us as we seek an urgent and early resolution of the problem and the establishment of an efficient service to you and other deserving customers in your area.
“Yours,
In the interest in improved communication”
The letter was signed by the CEO, General Manager.
