The Water and Sewerage Department announces that water relief has come to the people of Jost Van Dyke. The Government has recently received confirmation of the request made to upgrade the Desalination Plant by Jost Van Dyke Ocean Conversion Ltd. Government has granted approval to Jost Van Dyke Ocean Conversion to expand the plant from 17,500 to 35,000 imperial gallons per day on 10th March, 2009 as per their agreement on 2nd February, 2005.
Ocean Conversion had previously advised Government that it was not in a financial position to upgrade the plant. However, through the intervention of the Premier and Minister for Communications and Works, the company has now complied with Government’s request.
Director of Water and Sewerage, Julian Willock said he was happy that the matter has been resolved and the people of Jost Van Dyke can look forward to a continuous supply of potable water. He also thanked Ocean Conversion for their cooperation.
Government presently pays an average of $44.00 per 1000 gallons for water on Jost Van Dyke, which does not include electricity.
Proprietor of Foxy’s Restaurant, Mrs. Teresa Callwood said she hoped this would be a relief. “I really hope it will be better,” she explained, and agreed that it was not only needed but long overdue.
The new water access is in line with Government’s commitment to ensure that the people of the territory have a continuous supply of potable water which contributes to our quality of life.
British Virgin Islands News