Incinerator Decision Imminent, Minister Says
Health Minister Vincent O. Wheatley says a final decision on restoring incineration capacity at the Pockwood Pond waste facility will be made within weeks after an earlier technical assessment. During a site visit he also marked the commissioning of a new bulldozer for the Department of Waste Management, a step officials say will cut costs and improve operations.
Minister for Health and Social Development Hon Vincent O. Wheatley visited the Pockwood Pond waste facility during the week of October 13, 2025, and announced that a decision on restoring incineration capacity there is expected in the coming weeks. A Ministry of Health and Social Development press release dated October 20, 2025, said the Minister confirmed steps are being taken to bring incineration back online.
In January 2025, Pennram Diversified Manufacturing Corporation, an international incinerator specialist, inspected the existing unit and recommended either repairing the current 100-ton incinerator or replacing it with two new 50-ton systems. Hon Wheatley said the government is reviewing those recommendations and anticipates a final determination shortly.
Restoring incineration capacity at Pockwood Pond matters for residents because it can reduce landfill volume and improve the territory’s ability to manage certain waste streams. The Ministry has argued that a functional incinerator would complement ongoing recycling and composting efforts, and could help limit the amount of material that ends up in long-term disposal areas.
During the visit the Minister also witnessed a demonstration of a newly commissioned bulldozer for the Department of Waste Management (DWM). Wheatley described the acquisition as a “major cost-saving and operational milestone,” saying, “This means that much of the work we previously outsourced can now be handled in-house, operated, maintained, and managed by our own team.” Acting Director of Waste Management Levi Benjamin was praised for the department’s performance; the Minister noted there had not been a single fire at the site in 2024 or 2025, calling that achievement remarkable.
Mr Benjamin said the new bulldozer will reduce reliance on private contractors and improve day-to-day operations. “Having our own equipment is a game-changer. It saves on the costs and delays that come with outsourcing. Our team has already been trained and is ready to operate the machine efficiently, starting this week,” he said.
Wheatley also commended residents who have adopted recycling, composting and reuse practices, urging the community to continue such efforts. The Ministry’s next steps are expected to include reviewing Pennram’s report in detail, deciding whether to repair or replace the existing incinerator, and outlining a timetable for implementation.
Residents should watch for further announcements from the Ministry of Health and Social Development for updates on the decision and any impacts on waste collection or disposal services.
Primary source: VINO