Communities in St. George that have gone without a reliable water supply for decades could see long-awaited improvements within the next year, according to ABLP candidate Michael Freeland.
As reported by Antigua News Room, Freeland made the pledge during a "Know Your Candidates" interview ahead of the April 30 general election, identifying water access as one of the most persistent issues facing residents — particularly in parts of New George's, Carlisle's and Potter's.
"There's issues within certain parts of Carlisle, certain parts of New George's and certain parts of Potter's where there's no water," Freeland said, noting the problem has spanned generations. "Residents who have been complaining for the last 25 and 30 years will get water."
Freeland attributed the shortages largely to outdated infrastructure, saying older systems have struggled to meet demand. He pointed to ongoing national upgrades as a turning point in addressing the chronic problem.
"That is really based on the fact that we had an old system, and now that we're implementing a new system where the distribution of water can be much more efficient," he said.
Freeland stated that government officials have already committed to installing new pipelines and improving distribution networks. "I've been assured by the minister… and the water manager… that have no fear, we have the equipment, we're going to go and we're going to install these water pipes," he said.
The planned upgrades are expected to be supported by increased national water production, which Freeland said will improve overall supply to long-underserved communities.
"You've heard the Prime Minister speak about it, how much gallons of water — millions of gallons of water — we've increased on a daily production level. That just helps the process," he said.
Acknowledging the frustration felt by residents, Freeland sought to reassure them that change is imminent. "I know the frustration is there, but I'm working for you," he said. "Within short order, we'll have these problems addressed."
He cautioned that improvements would not materialise overnight but maintained that the timeline is near. "Within the next year or so, we should see improvements in these areas," Freeland said.
Water access remains a central concern for voters in St. George, where development has in many areas outpaced infrastructure. Freeland's comments place the issue alongside roads, drainage and housing as key priorities shaping the constituency ahead of the general election.
