Reverse water rates, it’s not too late – Cummings

Opposition member and the New Democratic Party representative for West Kingstown Daniel Cummings has called on the management at the Central Water and Sewerage Authority (CWSA) to reverse the decision to increase water rates.{{more}}

Cummings, a former General Manager at the CWSA, while speaking on the New Democratic Party sponsored ‘New Times’ radio programme on NICE Radio on Friday, January 27, called on Garth Saunders, General Manager of CWSA, not to implement the proposed increase in rates.

Cummings further contended that the CWSA can “survive and prosper” under the existing rates.

“The CWSA has to improve efficiency and stop the government from interfering in its internal affairs,” he said.

Go back to the recipe that was previously established under the NDP which, according to Cummings, was a basic formula which guaranteed a sustained quality of life, while providing quality water, sewerage and solid waste charges at a reasonable cost.

“I know you (Saunders) have a passion for what you do… this is a grave error… it’s not too late,” he continued.

“Plead with the government, take it back; save yourself, save the people, save our country.”

Cummings has been outspoken about the proposed increase in rates by the CWSA.

During an NDP press conference on January 18, he accused Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves of using the CWSA and Saunders to detail the increase in water and solid waste management.

“Look at the disrespect the Prime Minister has for this country. He comes to the Parliament and says there is going to be an increase in water rates. His Cabinet had long agreed to it, but he doesn’t even have the boldface to tell us in Parliament how much is the increase. He has to leave it to the CEO of the Water Authority to lay the hard facts on us,” Cummings said. (DD)