Minister for Communications and Works, Hon Kye M. Rymer (R5) has responded to a Jamaica Gleaner report highlighting the hardships faced by some Virgin Islands residents during prolonged water shortages, including reports that residents were bathing in the sea, stating that it’s a 'very unfortunate situation'. Photo: Facebook

The Gleaner report focused attention on residents affected by extended water interruptions, particularly on Jost van Dyke, where supply problems have been linked to leaks in the island’s reservoir and distribution system. Photo: Facebook

While responding to the concerns raised in the Gleaner article, Hon Kye M. Rymer (R5) said the VI’s main problem is not water production but the condition of its ageing infrastructure. “I can’t segue into stating that we do not have a water production problem in the BVI,” he said. “The challenges are age-old water pipes.” Rymer said the government has begun carrying out remedial work in strategic areas across the territory. He pointed to the rehabilitation and replacement of several reservoirs, including facilities at Long Bush, Carrot Bay and Zion Hill. Photo: Internet Source

Speaking on the Virgin Islands Voice programme on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, Hon Rymer said he was concerned after reading the article but acknowledged that the territory continues to face serious challenges with its water infrastructure.

“I felt bad hearing that story,” Hon Rymer said. “Actually, reading it, as you mentioned, it was all throughout the region.”

The Gleaner report focused attention on residents affected by extended water interruptions, particularly on Jost van Dyke, where supply problems have been linked to leaks in the island’s reservoir and distribution system. Hon Rymer explained that water was initially pumped into the main distribution line, but leaks later developed in the line, worsening the supply situation. During periods of drought, he said, residents were left without water for extended periods.

Following a community meeting, residents agreed that access to water through a standpipe would provide a temporary solution. Hon Rymer said the government subsequently installed a standpipe at the water production plant on Jost van Dyke.

Ageing infrastructure 

While responding to the concerns raised in the Gleaner article, Hon Rymer reiterated that the VI’s main problem is not water production but the condition of its ageing infrastructure.

“The challenges are age-old water pipes,” Hon Rymer said, adding that the government has begun carrying out remedial work in strategic areas across the territory. He pointed to the rehabilitation and replacement of several reservoirs, including facilities at Long Bush, Carrot Bay and Zion Hill.

He also said work was completed the previous week on the Hannah Hill reservoir in Sea Cows Bay, which had reportedly been leaking for an extended period. The minister’s explanation follows previous reports and government statements identifying deteriorating pipes and leaking reservoirs as major contributors to the territory’s water crisis.

Millions pumped into fixing water situation

Hon Rymer said the government is using approximately $8 million allocated for water infrastructure from a $100 million loan received in late 2024.

The funds are being used to purchase pipes and water meters, rehabilitate reservoirs, and undertake other improvements throughout the water-distribution system. He further announced that Cabinet has approved a supplementary appropriation request containing an additional $5 million for water infrastructure. The request is expected to be presented in the House of Assembly the following week.

Hon Rymer said road projects are also being used as an opportunity to install and upgrade water pipes, allowing the government to address infrastructure needs while roads are being constructed or improved.

Smart water network

In response to the concerns brought into focus by the Gleaner article, Hon Rymer said the government wants to develop a smarter water-distribution system. He said the system should allow officials to monitor the network, identify leaks, take preventative action, and make adjustments remotely.

“Water is a national priority, and we want to have a smart system,” he said.

Hon Rymer acknowledged that repairing the territory’s water infrastructure will be a gradual process tied to the government’s budget cycle and available funding. However, he said the ongoing investments are intended to improve the reliability of water delivery and prevent residents from being left without access to water for prolonged periods.