St James, Jamaica. August 28, 2024: MP Candidate for St. James East Central, Rushell Reid Knott, has expressed profound concern over the severe water shortage affecting residents and businesses within the Somerton Division. For over a month, residents have endured unreliable water supplies, leading to significant hardship and disruption in daily life.
"This crisis is impacting not only households but also businesses across our area. Local enterprises, from small shops to larger businesses, are struggling to operate without a consistent water supply," said Reid Knott. "The economic impact is evident, as businesses such as hairdressers, construction workers, car wash operators, bars, restaurants, and supermarkets face reduced productivity and increased costs while trying to manage with limited resources."
The situation is particularly alarming as five primary schools within the Somerton Division depend on this water supply. With the new school year approaching, the lack of access to clean water endangers the health, hygiene, and education of children. "The combination of affecting both our children and local businesses underscores the urgency of the matter," she added. Reid Knott is calling on the National Water Commission (NWC) and the incumbent Member of Parliament, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, to address this issue without delay. She has proposed the following actions to resolve the crisis:
Engage in Open Dialogue: The NWC and Hon. Bartlett must engage with residents and business owners to provide a transparent explanation of the water shortage and its causes. Provide a Clear Timeline: A specific timeline for the restoration of regular water supply is needed to enable proper planning and recovery.
Implement Interim Measures: Immediate solutions must be put in place to ensure access to clean water for both residents and businesses, as well as schools, to mitigate the impact of the shortage.
"Our community deserves better. We deserve transparency, accountability, and effective governance," Rushell Reid Knott emphasised. "I will continue to advocate for our rights and push for a swift resolution to this crisis. It is time for our voices to be heard, and I call on all concerned citizens to join me in demanding immediate action and support for our community’s needs.
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