I propose that the National Solid Waste Management Authority (NSWMA) and similar regional agencies be made the sole authorised exporters of all scrap-metal from the island.

This proposal would solve the most pressing problems associated with this industry, which also significantly impact national development.

It would:

Alleviate the wanton destruction of our national infrastructure by scrap-metal 'foragers'. I can already hear the existing scrap-metal dealers screaming 'murder'; but they could still continue in the trade, only they would have to sell their stock to the NSWMA, which would pay them the market rate less a 15-25 per cent commission, which is charged for handling and inspection of their wares.

Earn much-needed revenue for this authority and possibly allow it to become self-financing.

The citizens currently foraging within the city dump for a living could earn additional income by collecting metals contained within normal trash collection and be paid a fair price for their contribution to the reduction of refuse going into the landfill.

Because the authority's operations are already located at sites ideally suited for this type of activity, it should reduce the incidence of unsightly and unsanitary impromptu mini-dumps springing up all across the city.

I believe most of these scrap-metal dealers earn handsome amounts from which the country derives no benefit to the national coffers despite the drain on our resources. (This will provide a record of their earnings for the use of the revenue authority.)

Because of the centralisationof the trans-shipment point, inspection costs would be reduced and proper facilities could be constructed for the inspectors who could now be easily monitored to ensure that they do a proper job.

The persons working on the trucks as waste collectors could earn extra by collecting or identifying suitable metal waste for collection.

Countering contraband

I would suggest that the authority develop a secure facility with equipment to process the scrap received, sorting it into ferrous and non-ferrous types using electro-magnets and other means in order to derive the best prices. I also suggest that the various dealers' wares be aggregated for export so that no particular dealer's stock could be identified in the consign-ment once inspected and cleared for shipping. This last would reduce the likelihood of the agency being used as a trans-shipping centre for contraband.

All the above benefits can be derived with proper management systems in place to reduce/prevent the incidence of corruption and/or waste which seems to be associated with operations at this authority.

I am, etc.,

CLARENCE VILLIERS

daddyvil1956@gmail.com