It is with great pleasure that I am with you today, to inaugurate the new renovated building of the Nicosia Water Supply Council (WSC), in a familiar place for me having served for a number of years on the WSC Board.
It is evident the excellent work that has been done which has resulted in a gem of a building, which inspires employees to work in it. It is a building that will be a legacy to the citizens of this state and which meets their modern service needs. The building's energy upgrade makes it immediately environmentally friendly and a model building, an example for other government buildings in need of renovation and upgrading.
As the Ministry of Interior, we are very pleased to see the determination, will and readiness of the Administration and the Nicosia Water Supply Board to rationally transform this Organization into a provincial water supply, under the newly established Provincial Local Government Organization of the capital.
The proper use of time through the operation of the Interim Coordinating Councils, until June 2024 when the implementation of the Provincial Self-Government Organizations Act will begin, is critical. The objectives set by the Council and the good work done so far will, I am confident, find Nicosia Water Supply ready to meet the challenges brought by the reform in the water supply of the city and district of Nicosia.
The reorganization and reinforcement with appropriate staff of the Council's structure, and the extension of its boundaries of responsibility with the inclusion of the Lakatamia Water Supply within its administrative boundaries, as well as six water supply systems of suburban Nicosia communities, will help to ensure that the integration of the remaining water supply networks that remain will be carried out in a smooth manner, increasing population density and enhancing the sustainability of the Organization.
The modernisation of the Agency, through the digitisation of its operations, as well as the projects planned to upgrade the urban water supply network and the construction of new modern water tanks, which will increase water sufficiency in the capital, are a guarantee for the next day.
The goal of creating a single water supply in each province, through the Provincial Organizations, ensures an uninterrupted water supply of excellent quality drinking water throughout the country. This tremendous reform was made possible through the passage of the Provincial Local Government Reform Act of 2022.
The advantages of a single Water Supply Authority per province are many. Water quality, uniform pricing and optimal service for citizens are just some of the advantages that the new schemes will offer.
The competences of the Provincial Self-Government Agencies, which will be created after the 2024 local authority elections, will include, in addition to the management of water supply, the also uniform management of sewerage systems and solid waste, as well as urban planning and building permits.
The responsibilities of the Provincial Self-Government Agencies, which will be created after the 2024 local authority elections, will include, in addition to the management of water supply, the also uniform management of sewerage systems and solid waste, as well as urban planning and building permits. These reform breakthroughs must be properly managed for the benefit of the citizens.
It is immediately apparent that a great deal of effort and a large amount of work is required for their preparation and implementation.
I want to assure you that the Ministry of Interior and the relevant government departments involved in the implementation of local government reform will stand by the Councils and will stand by and assist in helping to the maximum extent possible so that the Provincial Organizations are built on solid foundations to give the citizens what we have owed them for decades. Better quality services at the lowest possible cost.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
The inauguration of the Nicosia Water Supply Board building today is no coincidence. They are being held in the context of World Water Day. The inauguration on this day adds special significance to the importance of water, which is our common property and a precious heritage for our future generations.
The proper management and protection of water is a fundamental principle that guides our Government's strategy for the transition to a sustainable society and green economy.
In conclusion, I would like to congratulate the Chairman and the Board of Directors, the Director and the entire Management Team of the Council for their determination to successfully complete the renovation and energy upgrading of the building.
Allow me to make a special mention of the extremely hard-working staff of the Agency, who over the years have been and obviously continue to be the most valuable asset of this Agency. I have seen you in person and I know you. I congratulate you all and each and every one of you individually. You are a model organisation. Good job and even greater progress to SYL.
Thank you.
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