THE EDITOR, Sir:
THE NATIONAL Water Commission takes note of a demonstration mounted February 28 by residents of Mount Royal Estate in St. Catherine regarding difficulties they are experiencing with the supply of water to them and wishes to clarify the issue.
Firstly, the dispute exists between the residents of that housing complex and its developers and not with the National Water Commission (NWC).
Secondly, as far as the NWC is concerned, the dispute relates to the following points:
The water supply and wastewater infrastructure is incomplete and does not meet the required standards for take-over by the NWC. The further infra-structure work that is required is the sole responsibility of the private developers of the scheme, and absolutely not the NWC's.
Previously, the complex was served by one bulk meter at the complex provided originally on an interim basis for construction purposes in the name Mount Royal Development Company Limited. This interim account has since developed arrears amounting to $10 million. Neither the residents nor the developers have settled these arrears.
Prior to it becoming clear that the infrastructure was incomplete and inadequate, the NWC established contracts to provide water to 15 residents. Notwithstanding the cause of the problems being that of the developers, the NWC has continued to provide tracked water twice weekly to these 15 residences.
As soon as the developer satisfactorily completes the infrastructure, the NWC will be more than ready to take over the maintenance and operation of the system and provide services to residences.
I am, etc.,
CHARLES BUCHANAN
Corporate Public Relations
Manager
National Water Commission
