Dear Editor,
There is an article in SN of December 29 concerning a power surge at Reliance, East Canje, where some residents lost their electrical equipment and were being asked by GPL for receipts of purchase to process applications for compensation. This boggles the mind.
Could some consumer advocate tell me what is the contract between GPL and its consumers, with particular reference to compensation resulting from occurrences such as the above? If I receive an item of equipment as a gift, can I not place a value on it for compensation from GPL for negligence on their part?
It is uncaring at this particular time to ask the residents for proof of ownership via receipts.
Some system should be in place to assess these assets using a fair valuation method similar to motor vehicles in the USA, where the handbook of second-hand vehicles with date of purchase and mileage, among other things, gives a reasonable valuation which is accepted in the courts.
Yours faithfully,
(Name and address provided)
