Authority told not to disconnect water on weekends

By Joyetter Feagaimaali'i 27 June 2019, 2:00PM

The Samoa Water Authority (S.W.A.) will no longer “disconnect” residential water meters on the weekends. 

The directive to the water utility company was given by the Minister of Works, Infrastructure and Transport, Papali’i Niko Lee Hang.

The Minister told the Samoa Observer that the decision follows concerns raised by members of the public.

“It appears they target the low income families and I’ve put a stop to it," Papali'i said.

"I’ve already instructed the S.W.A. management and staff that the disconnection of water meters for unpaid bills will be from Monday to Thursdays and not on the weekend.

“My office has been bombarded with complaints about the water disconnections on the weekend. Allow the people to come to the office to sort out their bills on Mondays."

Papali’i said it will be an additional cost to consumers once a meter is disconnected and S.W.A. staff had to be considerate. 

“It’s puzzling as to the mindset behind the weekend disconnection. Once the meter is disconnected, there is a reconnection fee. 

“The S.W.A. staff have to be considerate of the fact, the cost of living is relatively high,” he added.

He said the Government is a service provider and assisting low-income families is a priority from the Prime Minister to his Ministers and chief executive officers. 

“And our Government is known for its keenness in assisting low income families that is the frame of mind that is passed on from the Prime Ministers, to the Ministers, Chief Executive Officers and Assistant C.E.O.s, we are servants. 

Here to serve the public hence giving the public a chance to sort out their bills. 

“It won’t hurt to wait three days for the families to sort out their bills on Monday," said Papali’i. 

By Joyetter Feagaimaali'i 27 June 2019, 2:00PM
Samoa Observer

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