Member of Parliament Omar Newell has tabled a Private Member’s Motion in the House of Representatives calling for urgent legislative action to strengthen protections for Jamaica’s telecommunications, electricity and water infrastructure.

The motion, which is the first brought by the People’s National Party (PNP) during the current parliamentary term, argues that existing laws and penalties do not adequately address the growing threats facing critical utility networks, including theft, vandalism, sabotage and unlawful interference.

In tabling the motion, MP Newell described electricity, telecommunications and water systems as essential to national security, public safety and economic stability, warning that disruptions can have far-reaching consequences for hospitals, emergency services, schools, businesses and households.

“Our electricity, telecommunications, and water systems are not ordinary pieces of property; they are lifelines,” Newell told the House. “When these networks are attacked, the consequences ripple across the entire society.”

The motion calls on the Government to review the current legislative and regulatory framework with a view to formally designating electricity, telecommunications and water networks as critical national infrastructure. It also proposes the development of sector-specific legislation, including consideration of a Critical National Utility Infrastructure Protection Act.

Among the recommendations are the creation of specialised offences for theft, vandalism, sabotage or unlawful interference with utility infrastructure; the introduction of stronger penalties that reflect the national risks involved; and the classification of such offences as indictable-only matters to be tried in the Supreme Court.

The motion further urges improved coordination among law-enforcement agencies, regulators, relevant ministries and utility operators, as well as a review of the scrap-metal industry to reduce illicit markets that fuel infrastructure theft.

Newell stressed that the issue should not be viewed through a partisan lens, pointing to Jamaica’s vulnerability to natural disasters, cyber threats and organised criminal activity.

“This is not a partisan issue; it is a national imperative,” he said.

The motion also recommends the establishment of a Joint Select Committee to receive submissions from utility providers, regulators, law-enforcement officials, legal experts and civil-society groups, and to report back to Parliament with recommendations for updated legislation.

Newell said protecting Jamaica’s critical utility infrastructure is central to public safety, economic growth and national resilience, and reaffirmed his commitment to advancing constructive policy proposals while in Opposition.