PM Browne Reiterates Need for Water Rate Increase to Reduce Wastage
Prime Minister Gaston Browne has renewed his call for an increase in water rates, emphasizing that the measure is essential to curbing wastage and ensuring the sustainability of the nation’s water supply. This is not the first time Browne has raised the issue, having previously highlighted the need to adjust water pricing to reflect the significant investments in water infrastructure and reduce the financial burden on the government.
Speaking on the matter on Pointe FM, the Prime Minister pointed out that the artificially low cost of water encourages excessive usage, with some individuals using potable water for non-essential purposes such as watering lawns. “If you know wasting water comes at a financial cost, you’ll think twice,” Browne said, urging the adoption of recycling systems for activities like irrigation.
To address affordability concerns, Browne assured citizens that the proposed rate increase would be structured to protect low-income households. “We will ensure a threshold for the poor and vulnerable, so any increase for them will be marginal or nonexistent,” he stated. However, those who can afford to pay more will face higher rates, which the Prime Minister stressed would still be affordable.
Browne also shed light on the financial strain caused by the current subsidy on water, which has resulted in annual losses of over $30 million for the Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA). While the government plans to continue subsidizing water to some extent, Browne described the current level of expenditure as unsustainable.
The government has already invested over $160 million in water infrastructure projects, with additional initiatives expected to bring the total to over $250 million. Desalination plants and system upgrades are set to be completed by September, pending any unforeseen delays. Browne emphasized that the rate increase would only be implemented after these water supply issues are resolved.
The Prime Minister linked the proposed rate adjustment to the broader development agenda of his administration. He highlighted achievements such as the establishment of the University of the West Indies Five Islands Campus, upgrades to port facilities, renewable energy initiatives, and extensive roadwork. In Barbuda, investments include a new airport, road projects, and renewable energy systems.
Browne reiterated his stance that his administration has made historic strides in addressing the country’s infrastructure challenges. “We have systematically resolved critical issues like power, water, roads, and education. The evidence of our work is clear,” he said.
Aware of potential criticism, Browne urged citizens to understand the rationale behind the proposed increase. “We are asking the reasonable people of this country for their understanding and support,” he stated, dismissing anticipated political opposition as opportunistic. The Prime Minister noted that water rates have remained unchanged for over 40 years and argued that any administration would eventually need to take similar action.
While the timeline for implementing the rate increase remains uncertain, Browne emphasized the government’s commitment to balancing affordability, sustainability, and continued investment in critical public services.
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If that’s one of the method to end this water situation I welcome it
The water wastage in Antigua is from the standpipes cause the been dripping or flowing regularly an daily that’s what to be rectified
So many places in Antigua do not even have government running water, and you’re focused on increases water rates. This is the only country that I know personally that is so small and yet have places where people are without a water system. They have to depend on rain water or buy water. Why not focus on the right thing, which is to provide water in every community and every street.
Also, we as citizens need to know how the government should be running. The government’s job is to provide basic amenities to its citizens, and hat includes water. Giving us water is not a favour to us, but should be a duty. Everytime government spends money to fix a problem does not mean that we need to be taxed more or that prices should go up. Taxes and price jumps are killing us. People are struggling.
PS– Please do not come with any political nonsense. This is for the government, regardless of which party is in power. Things are hard. Stop making it worst! The sad truth is that ministers of government do not pay utilities and other expenses from their pockets, and many have forgotten their backgrounds and where they came from, so they are far removed from the day to day struggles of the average man.
There might not be any need to increase water rates if government stop wasting money on things like one nation concern which is of no benefit to the country, that would show you care about the vulnerable citizens. A leader is judged by how he treats the young and elderly
You have to be drunk in your dis and dat
this man cannot be serious, but this is what you voted for
No no no no no no no no no no no no no no no no no no no no no no no no no no no no no no no no no no no no no no no no no no no no no no no no no no no no no no no no no no no no
People can’t afford food to eat properly, oh God Jehovah Almighty do something in this situation.
People are hurting in this place and the political people don’t give a damn.
Arise oh Lord in Antigua and Barbuda and fix everything that needs fixing.
I wonder if Gaston understands that people have been paying water bills for decades without receiving any water. How the hell he can even entertain the thought of raising water rates when we get no water? Having seen both major parties in government, I have been apolitical. A move like that would definitely force me to be political again