GWI takes legal action against customers for non-payment

The Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI), during a press conference today revealed reasons why the entity was forced to take legal action against delinquent customers for non-payment for water service supplied.
            Executive Director of Corporate Services of GWI, Nigel Niles explained  that the company dispatched letters indicating the outstanding payments and requesting that they visit the nearest GWI office to settle all arrears within seven days after receipt of correspondence.
            On November 16, GWI dispatched warning letters to over 60 customers in Georgetown who continued to deprive the utility of payment for water services. These customers are primarily from the Festival City, North and South Ruimveldt communities.
            Niles indicated that the response has been slow but promising. “The delinquent customers are not responding as we anticipated, so we will be forced to take those who refuse to comply before the Courts.”
            It was noted that a similar exercise was conducted during the months of October and November on the West Coast Demerara with actions being filed in both the Magistrate’s  and High Courts. The company was successful in obtaining judgment against several customers.
            Although, the company has taken legal action against delinquent customers, it prefers that customers utilise its Friendly Payment Plan, which will be affordable and in the best interest of both parties.
             Chief Executive Officer of GWI, Yuri Chandisingh highlighted that the company’s disconnection campaign is an ongoing effort to ensure that the company receives payments for its services offered.
            He noted that last year the Friendly Payment Plan was proven effective as customers responded positively.
            Chandisingh highlighted that there are some diligent customers who are prompt with payment while others do not mind being disconnected since they would either have the service reconnected illegally or find alternative source of getting water supply.
            For inquiries concerning disconnections, the Friendly Payment Plan and reports of leakages among other defects the GWI Customer Call Centre can be contacted on telephone number 227-8701 and has adequate personnel to respond to customers.