Government does not receive water bills – Prime Minister

Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves has claimed that opposition Member of Parliament Daniel Cummings has misled Vincentians and the House of Assembly.{{more}}

Dr Gonsalves, speaking last Friday, January 13 during the wrap up of the budget debate, said that Cummings’ earlier claims that the Central Water and Sewerage Authority (CWSA) is soon to announce increased water rates, because government owes the Authority money, were incorrect.

During the presentation of the Budget on January 9, the Prime Minister announced that the CWSA will announce an increase in the cost of the delivery of water and solid waste services.

He indicated in response to Cummings’ claims, which were made on Wednesday, January 11, that the government does not pay water bills, because they do not receive any.

“There is no school, no department in government where they get a water bill. We give $1.4 million subvention; a block subvention to them, so that there is no water bill to hand out.

“Now from time to time, as with subventions, you will have an exceed enterprise falling short $200,000, $300,000, but they get paid.

“But I can’t understand a serious man would say, that the reason why they are raising water rates is because government owe money on their water bill.”

The Prime Minister said that even if that were the case, the cost of delivery and service would not be increased, based on the monies due to the company.

According to the Prime Minister, rate increases are based on the revenues generated in relation to its expenses and capital.

“These are such elementary points, but the honourable member for West Kingstown has a propensity… of speaking things for which he doesn’t quite know and speak them authoritatively…. So, the point is this: you don’t go and speak about things in that manner….” (JJ)