Pond Island – TelEm Group has issued a notice to all political parties contesting the January 11th, 2024, general elections, urging extreme caution when planting campaign flags, posters and other materials in the ground where these materials can possibly damage company cables that lie below ground. The message of caution also applies to promoters and entertainers also digging into the ground to place promotional materials.
TelEm Group’s specific message to the political parties reads:
“With the January 11, 2024, General elections drawing closer, the TelEm Group of Companies requests your cooperation and understanding when locating promotional frames and structures at various locations throughout St. Maarten.
The TelEm Group of Companies operates a vital underground telecommunications network throughout St. Maarten, providing essential services to businesses, residents, and government entities. This network is essential for maintaining communication channels and supporting the seamless flow of information.
We understand the importance of promoting your candidates and messages through various means, including the placement of posters and frameworks on promotional boards. However, we kindly request your cooperation in safeguarding our underground infrastructure, since there is a risk of damaging the network during the installation of promotional boards that require fixing into the ground. We are therefore urging your party and agents you employ, to exercise caution and follow the guidelines outlined below:
Contact: Before initiating any digging activities for the placement of promotional boards, please contact Mr. Romeo of the Outside Plant Department at +1(721) 5238408 so that we can provide you with essential information about the location of our underground infrastructure and guide you on safe installation practices.
Permits: Please work in collaboration with relevant government departments and property owners to obtain any necessary permits and ensure compliance with regulations related to excavation and construction activities.
Prioritize Network Safety: Exercise extreme care when fixing promotional boards into the ground, especially in areas where our telecommunications network is present. Avoid digging without proper authorization and knowledge of the underground infrastructure.
Report Damage: Contact Mr. Ernesto Romeo, of the TelEm Group Outside Plant (OSP) Department at telephone: +1 (721) 523-8408 to immediately report damage to any of TelEm Group’s underground network infrastructure or equipment.
By adhering to these simple guidelines, political parties and their agents, contesting the upcoming elections will contribute to the protection of our critical infrastructure and help maintain uninterrupted communication services for the entire community.
We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in this matter. If you have any questions or require further information, please do not hesitate to contact us at: +1 (721) 546 – 0100.
Thank you for your attention to this important issue.”
ENDS.