Tougher water fines

Jamaica is implementing stricter water restrictions, with seven parishes facing a water prohibition starting August 17 due to deteriorating drought conditions. The government is also moving to increase penalties for those who violate these restrictions, as Minister of Water, Environment and Climate Change Matthew Samuda prepares to seek approval for tougher fines from the executive and legislature.

"Because of the present forecast and warning associated with El Niño, we will have to move with unprecedented speed, and we will have to engage first the Cabinet and then Parliament in the coming weeks to facilitate this," Samuda stated. The affected parishes include Kingston, St Andrew, St Thomas, St Mary, Portland, St Ann, and St Catherine. These orders will remain in effect until further notice.

The prohibition targets non-essential or unusual water usage. Specifically prohibited activities include irrigating gardens, lawns, and farms; refilling ponds or swimming pools; using water for anything other than basic domestic needs like drinking, cooking, washing, bathing, and sanitation; washing vehicles with a hose; and watering or washing roadways and pavements. The ministry emphasized that the decision followed a high-level meeting confirming critically low rainfall levels and soaring temperatures.

Samuda acknowledged the potential economic impact on commercial operations, such as car washes, but stressed that maintaining supply for critical services, especially schools, is the priority as the country prepares for the September reopening. The current fine for breaching an order is $1,000, with non-payment potentially leading to imprisonment for up to 30 days. The minister indicated that these penalties are designed to ensure compliance and safeguard Jamaica's water supply during this critical period.

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Because of the present forecast and warning associated with El Niño, we will have to move with unprecedented speed, and we will have to engage first the Cabinet and then Parliament in the coming weeks to facilitate this.