BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – Cabinet has recently announced that St. Kitts will be receiving three garbage trucks to alleviate the ongoing problem of irregular garbage collection.
In an exclusive interview with Minister of State for Information, Senator Hon. Nigel Carty, SKNVibes was informed that the government bought one used garbage truck that is “in good condition” and ordered two Mack trucks expected to arrive and be in full use by the end of April.
“We all recall that during August to September of last year, we suffered badly due to mechanical problems in some of the garbage trucks at the Solid Waste Management Corporation (SWMC). To address the issue, we brought onboard one private operator to help to regulate the garbage collection. We expanded its scope of service as the problem was growing into a big one.
“In recognizing the suffering of the people of St. Kitts, experienced as a result of the breakdown in garbage collection, the government made a commitment to improve the situation in a timely manner.”
Carty informed that his government gave concessions to private waste management companies to encourage imports of the garbage trucks. He added that the decision symbolizes that the government is committed to alleviate the problems and “maintain an environment conducive to the tourism industry”.
Minister of Health Hon. Rupert Herbert said the move was a necessary one as it allows the department to be more efficient. He however urged members of the community to be more responsible with their garbage disposal.
“To do the job properly we need the proper equipment. The additional vehicles will increase our capacity and would allow us to work more efficiently.
“However, we must realize that this alone will not help the problem; persons in the community must also do their part and work along with the garbage collectors. They must know the collection schedule and put out their garbage on time to avoid the build-up of garbage.”
