Holness outlines major NWC upgrades as 969 workers are honoured for long service

Prime Minister Andrew Holness used the National Water Commission's 2026 Service Excellence Award Gala to salute long-serving staff and to signal that large-scale investments are now being lined up for Jamaica's water and sewerage network. The commission said 969 employees with 15 years or more of service were being recognised, with the evening ceremony highlighting workers who have reached 30 years and beyond. Holness said the utility's employees do more than keep the NWC running, telling awardees, "You are the people that make Jamaica work."

Acting president Kevin Carr said the honourees had carried the organisation through years of change, including shifts in technology, growth in the customer base and the constant demands of public service. Other speakers described the awardees as the backbone of the commission and nation builders whose work supports public health, daily life and economic activity across Jamaica. Chairman Michael Shaw said almost half of the workforce was being marked for 15 years or more of service, while a representative speaking on behalf of Opposition Leader Mark Golding also offered congratulations to the staff.

Water Minister Matthew Samuda said the Government had already signed off on what he described as the largest salary restructuring package at the NWC, had moved to address retroactive matters, and intended to keep pension issues at the centre of discussions. He said more than $15 billion would be invested in the water network this financial year, but added that the country still faces a much bigger bill to properly repair and expand an ageing system. Samuda also said the commission planned parish-based family events to thank relatives who support workers through long hours and emergency duty.

Holness said the NWC was now operating more efficiently than at almost any point in its history, with debt under control and capital spending picking up. He pointed to the north-western water supply project, a Rio Cobre public-private partnership meant to serve Kingston, Spanish Town and Portmore, major sewage works for downtown Kingston, and planned upgrades at Hermitage, including a new dam. He also said daily water-quality checks were helping Jamaica maintain top regional standards, even as the country continues recovery work following Hurricane Melissa. The prime minister said Jamaicans should see clear improvements in service reliability over the next five years.