Prime Minister Holness Welcomes Minister Matthew Samuda Back to Cabinet | Samuda Given Renewed Mission for Potable Water Access Across Jamaica
“Our goal now is for every household to have potable water, not just as an outdoor amenity, but in every en suite bathroom. This is the standard we aim to achieve.”
– Prime Minister Holness
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Prime Minister, Dr. the Most Honourable Andrew Holness says his administration is committed to ensuring access to reliable and efficient water supply across Jamaica.
Speaking on Wednesday (October 30) at the swearing-in ceremony for Matthew Samuda, who returns to the Cabinet as Minister with responsibility for water, Prime Minister Holness said Samuda has a track record of effective and efficient work.
The Prime Minister highlighted that Minister Samuda brings an extensive track record of dedication to public service, environmental stewardship, and responsiveness to citizens’ needs.
“Matthew is a very responsive minister. I have received countless compliments on his commitment to his duties, and it is clear that he has a passion for the work he undertakes,” the Prime Minister shared.
Dr. Holness also stressed the crucial role that water accessibility plays in elevating the quality of life for all Jamaicans, emphasizing that the country’s expectations are no longer satisfied by outdated standards of water access.
“It’s not sufficient to say that there’s a standpipe nearby or that a water main passes close to a home. Our goal now is for every household to have potable water, not just as an outdoor amenity but in every en suite bathroom. This is the standard we aim to achieve,” said the Prime Minister.
At the same time, Dr. Holness detailed the need to expand economic growth to increase infrastructure investments and heighten operational efficiency in water management.
One of Minister Samuda’s key mandates will be to maximize the effectiveness of current resources and ensure that every dollar spent yields the greatest possible output for water.
In addition to increasing access to water, Prime Minister Holness also charged Minister Samuda with continuing efforts to strengthen the National Water Commission’s (NWC) financial stability.
Once seen as a fiscal liability, the NWC has now reached its strongest balance sheet in its history, a result of the work of the Holness administration, which the Prime Minister says must be sustained.
Addressing the environmental factors contributing to water scarcity, Prime Minister Holness highlighted the intensifying droughts and unpredictable rainfall patterns that have complicated water resource management.
Dr. Holness noted that as Jamaica faces these challenges, protecting the nation’s water sources is paramount.
Prime Minister Holness said with the Hon. Mathew Samuda experience in environmental issues, he is positioned to integrate water resource conservation into his broader portfolio, ensuring future water security for all Jamaicans.
Prime Minister Holness expressed confidence in Minister Samuda’s capability and leadership as he resumes his role.
“Minister, you have my full support as you confront these pressing challenges. Welcome back to the Cabinet, and may your service bring us closer to achieving a sustainable, reliable water future for Jamaica.”