In a move aimed at addressing long-standing water supply issues in Antigua and Barbuda, Prime Minister Gaston Browne has issued a stern warning to underperforming staff within the Antigua Public Utilities Authority’s (APUA) Water Department.
The Prime Minister, during a recent broadcast on his weekly radio program on Sunday, vowed to terminate those failing to fulfill their duties.
Cracking down on “bad eggs”
Browne said that he will start calling out individuals responsible for the prolonged water shortages that have afflicted communities in Antigua and Barbuda.
“If you don’t perform, you are going to lose your jobs. That’s the reality of it. We are not going to be making any joke with you all,” he warned.
The Prime Minister expressed his dissatisfaction with the handling of critical infrastructure, such as the spillway at Potworks, and questioned why no action had been taken earlier to secure it.
He underscored the government’s substantial investments in the water supply and demanded accountability for any negligence that had contributed to water loss.
Leadership changes at APUA
In response to the water crisis, significant changes have been made at APUA.
Reports are that General Manager Esworth Martin, who had held the position for two decades, was directed to take preretirement leave due to the government’s dissatisfaction with his management of the water problems.
Martin’s departure includes a generous exit package that encompasses all benefits.
Despite describing Martin as a friend, Prime Minister Browne stressed that the government had no choice but to take decisive action and demand improved performance within APUA.
Sabotage suspicions
Furthermore, the Prime Minister hinted at suspicions of internal sabotage within APUA, suggesting that some individuals may be manipulating the water delivery system for political purposes.
Browne further shared that he was shocked at the “nonchalant” attitude displayed by APUA’s management during a recent company retreat.
He emphasized that such complacency within the public sector, where citizens and residents bear the brunt of poor service, would not be tolerated.
Accountability across the board
Not limited to the APUA Water Department, the Prime Minister also put four senior managers at various state entities on notice, making it clear that accountability and performance are paramount.
While asserting that the government is not acting out of spite, he reinforced the importance of holding individuals accountable for their actions.
