In response to mounting financial difficulties exacerbated by natural disasters and the ongoing challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Dominica Water and Sewerage Company Limited (DOWASCO) has announced the implementation of a new Water Guarantee Charge, effective June 1, 2024.
This charge aims to address revenue shortfalls and bolster the company’s ability to provide essential water services to all residents of Dominica.
The Water Access Charge, delineated according to customer category, reflects the company’s urgent need for additional resources to manage operations and maintain critical infrastructure. Louis Patrick Hill, Chairman of the Board of DOWASCO, emphasized the necessity of the increase during a recent media conference.
Hill cited a series of setbacks, including the destructive forces of Tropical Storm Erika and Hurricane Maria, which inflicted significant damage on the nation’s water infrastructure, followed by the economic strains of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Hill articulated the company’s financial plight, stating, “For the last three years, we have been way under budget. So what has happened? We have a very low stock of supplies.”
He underscored the imperative of replenishing resources to ensure preparedness for future emergencies, highlighting the indispensable role of adequate funding in facilitating timely repairs and maintenance.
Acknowledging the potential financial strain on consumers, Hill reassured the public that DOWASCO and the government have endeavored to minimize the increase.
He emphasized that the rate adjustment is not driven by profit-seeking motives but rather by the imperative of meeting operational costs and ensuring the sustainability of essential services.
Hill conveyed a direct message to customers, emphasizing the consequences of inadequate funding on the company’s ability to respond to emergencies and maintain service reliability.
Bernard Etinoffe, General Manager of DOWASCO, echoed Hill’s sentiments, affirming the company’s commitment to addressing longstanding challenges.
Etinoffe highlighted the significance of the Water Guarantee Charge in facilitating timely loan payments and ensuring financial stability for DOWASCO.
He emphasized that the charge would not affect the basic tariff for water or sewerage services, assuaging concerns about additional financial burdens on consumers.
Moreover, Etinoffe outlined the broader benefits of the charge, including the ability to secure insurance for major assets currently uninsured. This proactive measure underscores DOWASCO’s commitment to mitigating risks and safeguarding critical infrastructure against future contingencies.
In conclusion, the implementation of the Water Guarantee Charge represents a proactive step by DOWASCO to address financial challenges and fortify the resilience of Dominica’s water infrastructure.
While recognizing the impact on consumers, company officials emphasize the necessity of adequate funding to ensure the continued provision of reliable water services to all residents.
As Dominica navigates the complexities of recovery and resilience-building, initiatives such as the Water Guarantee Charge play a pivotal role in securing the nation’s water future.
This article was created using automation and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
