 |
Honorable Said Musa and Mel Spain break ground at the site of Caye Caulker’s future Water Distribution System. CEO of BWS Alvan Haynes looks on.
|
On Friday, February 1st, 2008, the people of Caye Caulker rejoiced and were highly appreciative of the bold move that the Government of Belize made. Through the Ministry of National Development in partnership with the Belize Water Services (BWS) a crowd gathered to witness the announcement and groundbreaking ceremonies for the implementation of a Water Distribution System. For too long, the “go slow” village has been unable to access piped, high-quality potable water for some 2,000 residents and businesses throughout the island but that will now be part of the past.
Present for the joyous occasion was Right Honorable Prime Minister of Belize Said Musa, People’s United Party Standard Bearer Murlene “Mel” Spain, past Area Representative for the Belize Rural South constituency Patricia Arceo, Executive Director of the Belize Tourism Industry Association Andrew Godoy, Chief Executive Officer of BWS Alvan Haynes, Chairman of the Board of Directors of BWS Norris Hall and the Chairperson for Caye Caulker Village Ralph Humes.
Mr. Humes was the first speaker of the day, commenting, “We have been waiting for a water system for 17 years. Ladies and gentlemen the time is now!” Norris Hall followed and expressed his satisfaction for the ability to fulfill a promise made by GOB a few years ago. “Now, I have made a commitment that Caye Caulker will get its water as soon as possible and I want to assure you all that it will happen.” Other guest speakers included Belize Tourism Industry Association (BTIA) representative, Andrew Godoy. He expressed that the Association was proud to engage itself in this kind of integrative initiative which would benefit not only the residents but also the tourism-related businesses on the island. Resident doctor, Johan Perez took to the stage and expressed his medical concerns stating that with high quality potable water being piped to homes now, it will definitely keep our children healthier and hence enhancing their educational possibilities. He also went into Caye Caulker’s finances explaining that piped water will now add to the charm of La Isla Cariñosa. Mel Spain spoke to the gathering saying, “You all know that water has no color, it’s not red and it’s not blue. The truth is water is coming to Caye Caulker and I am happy to form part of this change for the betterment of the residents.”
Honorable Said Musa was the keynote speaker at the event. In his address at the ceremonies, he assured the residents that this was only the first phase of this project. The second phase would be next, to provide a proper sewerage system for the residents.
The project is estimated to cost over $2.5 Million, $1.75Million will be provided by the Government of Belize and the remaining will be covered by BWS. The system which is the latest in water treatment technology will include a reverse osmosis plant, a 100,000 gallon capacity water storage tank and a distribution network of five and a half miles of water mains. This is expected to be completed within the next the twelve (12) months.
|
