Water Trucks Handed Over to St. Elizabeth and St. Ann

The water woes of residents in some communities of St. Ann and St. Elizabeth should be significantly decreased with the handing over of two new water trucks to the Parish Councils by the Ministry of Local Government and Environment.
State Minister in the Ministry, Harry Douglas, speaking at the handing over ceremony today (August 16), at the Ministry’s offices on Hagley Park Road in Kingston, said the two trucks were part of a fleet of five that have been purchased from Japan at a cost of US$117,796.00. Each truck is equipped with a 2,500 gallon tank. Another 55 water trucks are expected to arrive in the island by year end and will be distributed islandwide. Mr. Douglas said the presentation of the trucks was not only timely, but a symbol of Government’s commitment of ensuring that every home has potable water. “The Ministry of Local Government and the government, in particular, are cognizant of the fact that from time to time, through drought, we suffer from water shortage, especially in the rural areas.these trucks will address this problem,” he said.
Mr. Douglas charged the Parish Councils to ensure that all drivers are properly trained and meet the required standards. Meanwhile, Secretary/Manager of the St. Elizabeth Parish Council, Gerald Lee said he was very pleased to receive the unit, as it would enhance the capacity of the local authority to effectively serve the residents in communities who do not have access to potable water. “Over the years we have always had problems with distributing water to some persons in some communities in St. Elizabeth, because of the hilly terrain,” he noted. “With this truck, we are now in a position where we will be able to effectively disburse water to communities that are in need. The trucks that we have are not adequate, and looking at this truck I see that it can handle the terrain, and I am sure it will go a far way in alleviating the severe water problems that we have,” Mr. Lee said. Secretary/Manager of the St. Ann Parish Council, Michael Morris also expressed his satisfaction with the new truck. “The Council feels good.and this truck is going to help us alleviate the problems that St. Ann has been experiencing over the last couple of months. The whole area will benefit in an efficient way.” he said.