The Palmeto Pen/Breadnut Bottom/Rosewell Water Supply Project was officially commissioned into service during a ceremony held at the Rosewell Primary School in Clarendon on Friday.

This joint venture between the National Water Commission (NWC) and the Rural Water Supply Limited has resulted in residents from the communities of Breadnut and Rosewell receiving water in their homes for the first time in 30 years.

The pipeline construction work for the project was completed at a cost to the NWC of $38 million, representing a savings of $12 million to the commission on the original project cost.

In his remarks at the event, Prime Minister Andrew Holness said the Government will continue to invest in the development of the water sector.

“I will ensure that whatever budget there is… that we spend it in a strategic way,” Holness said.

He noted that while there are engineering challenges to deliver water to some communities, all methods will be used to ensure that Jamaicans have potable water at their disposal.

Holness also informed that the Government is looking at developing a legislative framework for rainwater harvesting in Jamaica.

Rainwater harvesting is the harnessing or gathering of rainwater and, storing and using it later for domestic, agricultural, or industrial purposes.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Holness encouraged the residents to make the necessary payments for the water they use, noting that this will enable the NWC to implement other projects to provide water to communities.

“Make it a priority and pay something for your water,” Holness said.