This Water Policy for Grenada seeks to provide a framework to maximise the contribution of the water sector to sustainable economic, social and environmental development in an efficient and equitable manner. It outlines measures to overcome the constraints in the water sector that form an impediment to social and economic development in Grenada. The constraints identified include: A fragmented and poorly coordinated approach to water resources management and its relationship to development activities and planning; a severe lack of knowledge and understanding of the available water resources; rising demands for water across the tourism, industrial and agricultural sectors; an absence of allocation and mediation mechanisms to resolve conflicts over the use of water resources; inadequate infrastructure to ensure water quality and quantity especially during dry seasons; absence of an adequate sewage disposal system; poor enforcement of regulations and the need to revise and update current legislation pertaining to water services and water resources; weak financial position of the water service provider and an inability to mobilise financial resources; increasing impacts on the natural and water resources environment from environmental degradation, pollution and inappropriate land use; lack of planning for the impact of natural disasters and climate change. The Policy is divided into three Parts. The first Part concerns the rational of the Policy, overall visions, objectives, goals, etc. The second Part contains a detailed indication for action, whereas the third Part is concerned with implementation of the Plan. Guiding principles of the Policy include, among other things, existence of a basic human right of access to water of sufficient quantity and quality to all, water resources being public property, sustainable water use and the precautionary principle. The Policy also specifies criteria which shall guide the implementation of the Water Policy with respect to water resources (sustainable and integrated water resources management) and water services (separate and distinct function from the management of water resources). In accordance with the principle that access to water is a basic human right, there shall be a service that makes available adequate and accessible quantities of water of a defined quality that is affordable and that allows for progressive increase in standards of basic services. The Policy outlines criteria for the implementation of the Policy with respect of water resources management (basically integrated water resources management with equitable regard to quantity, quality required for human needs and ecological functions, and to ensure national food security) and water services (the provision of water services is a separate and distinct function from the management of water resources and entails the adoption of sound business practices and a commercial approach to service delivery including good corporate governance) In accordance with the principle that access to water is a basic human right, there shall be a service that makes available adequate and accessible quantities of water of a defined quality that is affordable and that allows for progressive increase in standards of basic services. Strategic responses formulated include, among other things, establishment of an institutional mechanism for the coordination and management of water resources, the coordination with and inclusion of national and community-based agencies and stakeholders with responsibilities for water and land, in decision-making processes. Responses also concern effective and transparent coordination, improving the water resources information base, establishing effective, water and wastewater quality control, regulating water pricing, reducing vulnerability to natural disasters, and fostering appropriate cultural and attitudinal change. The Government must monitor the impact of the Policy against the vision and objectives that have been set, and to adjust the Policy in the light of changes in the situation. The Policy outlines primary roles and responsibilities of the State and concerns involvement of the private sector, citizens, civil society and the International Development Community.
National Water Policy.