The Caribbean Christian Centre for the Deaf, CCCD, yesterday (Tuesday, September 24) received the first of three 1000-gallon water tanks to increase their water-storage capacity.
The water tank, donated by the National Water Commission, was handed over by Minister without Portfolio in the Ministry of Economic Growth and Job Creation (MEGJC), Sen. Pearnel Charles Jr.
In handing over the tank, Minister Charles Jr emphasized that the Government is aware of the challenges being faced by the institution and surrounding communities, “but we are here for action and so we have brought with us a tank which will be handed over to you as a sign of direct and practical support for you to be able to provide water as is needed”.
“We want to reassure you that we are committed to making the investment that will ensure that you are able to provide your students on the campus with the necessary water”, Minister Charles Jr said.
He further noted that the Government is looking to address the water challenges at the institution in two ways.
“Firstly, we are going to partner with you to do an evaluation of your situation here and to see how we can help you to develop a system that is more efficient and allows for you to be able to provide the water as best possible. Secondly, where needed, we are going to step up and assist in giving the necessary support in the provision of resources.”
Earl Daley, Principal and Campus Director at the CCCD expressed his gratitude for the donation highlighting that he cannot find the words to express it.
“It was only three weeks ago our 3000-gallon capacity tank fell into disrepair”, he lamented, expressing hope that the Government will see it fit to provide additional support to the school as it is a faith-based institution, which he said is doing “wonders in terms of educating and developing the deaf community holistically”.
Meanwhile, Minister Charles Jr who has responsibility for the Water, Housing and Infrastructure portfolios at the MEGJC said the Government is making the necessary investments to improve the delivery of potable water.
“We also know that this area is challenged, not just the school, so we are working to implement the immediate measures to give as much relief as possible and our long term goal is to develop a diversified and more resilient system so that all Jamaicans within our utility service will get consistent delivery of water. It’s going to take us a lot of money but this Government is starting to make that investment and I know that we will get the partnership and support of all stakeholders to do so because water is one of those very critical areas where everybody has to be on-board,” he concluded.
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