“Should WSC not meet their obligations, Aqua Design Bahamas will cease production on May 8, 2021”
NASSAU, BAHAMAS — Aqua Design Bahamas, the operator of reverse osmosis plants that supply potable water to several Family Islands, has advised it will delay the closure of its plant amidst a dispute with the government over its contract.
Last week, the company advised that its contract with the government was expected to expire and it would cease production of water at its South Eleuthera plant on May 3.
“Despite our communicated interest to renew the contract, W&SC (the Water and Sewerage Corporation) has not shown any interest in doing so,” the company said.
However, in a recent announcement, the company said after a discussion with WSC, the planned closure of the plant in Inagua has been postponed until May 8.
“W&SC and Aqua Design Bahamas are working to finalize written agreements to resolve all outstanding issues between the parties,” the company said.
“Should the parties comply with their obligations, Aqua Design Bahamas will continue production through November 1, 2021.
“Should WSC not meet their obligations, Aqua Design Bahamas will cease production on May 8, 2021.”
Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) Leader Philip Brave Davis has raised concerns over the threat of residents and businesses in South Eleuthera, San Salvador and Inagua having their water supply cut off amidst the dispute.
Davis urged the government in a statement over the weekend to address the issue immediately, calling it “concerning and troubling”.
“It is most unfortunate that this FNM (Free National Movement) government has allowed this matter with the suppliers to fester/escalate to this dire and critical point,” he said.
“While water is at all times an essential good, in the face of a coronavirus pandemic, with water noted as a key preventative measure component, the government must act in a more caring and competent manner.
“The implications are a deadly threat to public health in those islands and yet another potential blow is dealt with an already struggling economy.”
Davis questioned why the government did not renew the contract with Aqua Design Bahamas.
“The people of the Bahamas have come to learn that this FNM government lacks transparency, but we hope not to the extent that they would intentionally fail to arrive at a settlement with an essential service supplier in order to create an opportunity for selfish gain,” he said.
He added: “We call on Prime Minister Minnis and this seemingly uncaring FNM government to act now on behalf of the residents and businesses in South Eleuthera, San Salvador and Inagua.”
