Rymer Addresses Regional Water Crisis Reports
Communications and Works Minister Kye Rymer has expressed concern over regional media reports detailing the territory's persistent water shortages while acknowledging that aging infrastructure remains a critical challenge. The minister outlined ongoing rehabilitation efforts and confirmed that millions in funding are being directed toward repairing reservoirs, replacing pipes, and establishing a smart water network. Cabinet has also approved an additional supplementary allocation to further support water infrastructure upgrades across the Virgin Islands.
Minister for Communications and Works Hon. Kye Rymer has addressed recent regional media coverage regarding the Virgin Islands' persistent water supply issues, describing widespread reporting by the Jamaica Gleaner as unfortunate while openly acknowledging the severe infrastructural hurdles facing the territory.
Speaking on a local radio programme, Hon. Rymer noted his concern over the regional attention drawn to local water interruptions. The regional report focused heavily on hardships faced by residents, particularly on Jost Van Dyke, where distribution challenges and reservoir leaks left many households without consistent running water during dry spells.
In response to community concerns, the government recently installed a temporary public standpipe at the water production facility on Jost Van Dyke to provide immediate relief to affected residents. Rymer reiterated that the territory's primary obstacle is not water production capacity, but rather an aging, fragile distribution network riddled with leaks.
To curb these water losses, the government has embarked on targeted infrastructure upgrades across several strategic locations. Major rehabilitation initiatives include work on reservoirs in Long Bush, Carrot Bay, and Zion Hill, as well as recently completed repairs to the long-leaking Hannah Hill reservoir in Sea Cows Bay.
Addressing the financial backing for these projects, the minister explained that roughly $8 million from a $100 million loan facility secured in late 2024 has been dedicated strictly to water infrastructure. These funds are actively being used to procure new piping, install modern water meters, and restore key storage facilities.
In addition, Cabinet has approved a supplementary appropriation request for another $5 million in water network funding, which will soon be presented to the House of Assembly for debate. The ministry is also coordinating water pipe installations with ongoing road rehabilitation works across the islands, ensuring that underground lines are replaced concurrently with roadway improvements.
Rymer highlighted plans to transition the territory toward a modern, smart distribution network capable of automated leak detection and remote adjustments, emphasizing that securing reliable water delivery remains a top national priority.
Primary source: VINO