For outstanding payments…
GUYANA Water Inc. (GWI) is taking legal action against customers for non-payment of bills as the utility moves to collect an outstanding $10M.

Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Mr. Yuri Chandisingh made the announcement at a press conference  yesterday, in the GWI Corporate Boardroom, at Vlissengen Road and Church Street, Georgetown. He appealed to all customers to avoid litigation and service disconnection, pointing out that the former is the last resort of GWI.
Chandisingh encouraged customers to visit GWI offices and make use of the friendly payment plan being offered.
He said there is an active disconnection campaign countrywide and exhorted customers to honour their obligations, as GWI needs financial resources to continue its operations.
Chandisingh said, despite GWI urging, some customers continue to be stubborn and, consequently, service disconnections will be effected because the corporation must recover its debt.
Director of Corporate Services, Mr. Nigel Niles said demand letters have been sent out, indicating the outstanding amounts and requesting consumers to visit the nearest GWI office and settle all arrears within seven days.
He said a similar exercise was conducted during the months of October and November at West Coast Demerara. Actions were filed in both the Magistrates’ and High Courts and GWI was successful in obtaining judgment against defaulters.
Niles said demand letters do not bar the recipients from selecting an option for settling all arrears.
“Customers who are unable to pay the entire outstanding amount can negotiate a payment plan,” he reiterated, stating:“This will allow them to pay in small portions and avoid legal penalties.
“It is imperative that these customers contact us regarding their arrears,” he said, noting that “failure to do so might prove even more costly should the matter be taken before a Court of Law.”
Niles revealed that 60 demand letters were sent to delinquent customers and those  who owe in the vicinity of $50,000 will be taken to the Magistrate’s Court and those whose debt is $100,000 and more will be pursued in the High Court.
Customer Services Manager, Ms. Jeannette Thomas said GWI recognises that many customers are unable to visit GWI offices and they can make contact by telephone or e-mail to either query their bills or report leaks.
She said the services are available from 07:00 h to 17:00 h daily and customers are encouraged to use them.