Statement
Statement By Minister For Communications And Works
Honourable Kye M. Rymer
At The Twentieth Sitting Of The First Session Of The Fifth House Of Assembly Of The Virgin Islands On Launch Of
The Water And Sewerage Payment Portal
FRIDAY 18th OCTOBER 2024
Madam Speaker, my final statement to this Honorable House is on the significant advancement in our digital transformation efforts to enhance public service delivery and improve access to essential utilities through innovation and technology.
The Water and Sewerage Department is set to launch a new online payment solution following successful testing. This online portal will enable customers to conveniently pay their water and sewerage bills using two distinct methods, with the official launch scheduled for January 2025.
The initiative represents a critical step toward modernising our water and sewerage services, providing residents and businesses with a user-friendly, secure, and efficient way to manage their utility payments. No longer will they need to navigate long queues or cumbersome processes; with just a few clicks, they will be able to access their accounts, view billing information, and make payments from the comfort of their homes or any location with internet access.
The features of the portal include:
- 24/7 Accessibility: Customers can access the portal anytime, allowing for greater flexibility in managing their accounts.
- Dual Payment Options: This portal supports various payment methods, making it easier for everyone to choose their preferred way to pay.
- Account Management: Users can easily view their billing history and usage patterns, empowering them to make informed decisions about their water consumption.
- Security: The portal utilises state-of-the-art security measures to ensure customer information is protected.
Regarding the dual payment options, Madam Speaker, customers can choose between two methods to pay their water and sewerage bills:
- Pay By Email: Users will receive a "Pay Now" link directly in their email, directing them to a platform where they can follow on-screen instructions to settle their outstanding invoices.
- Payment Portal: Customers can sign up on the PayGov portal at payment.gov.vg to create a login profile, entering their invoice number and customer number to complete the sign-up process.
Madam Speaker I encourage our customers to visit the department and register by providing their email addresses. This will facilitate communication regarding bills, receipts, and important announcements.
We believe this initiative will enhance convenience for our customers and promote timely payments, ensuring the sustainability of our water and sewerage services. As we move forward, we will gather feedback from our users to refine and improve the portal, ensuring it meets their evolving needs. We are committed to transparency and will keep this Honourable House informed of the progress and any future enhancements.
I extend my gratitude to all stakeholders who made this online payment portal a reality, including the Water and Sewerage Department, the Department of Information and Technology, Banco Popular and their payment processors, the Treasury Department, the Ministry of Finance, Smarter Commerce for their development efforts, and the seventeen individuals who participated in the pilot testing and provided invaluable feedback.
Madam Speaker, the launch of this initiative aligns with our National Sustainable Development Goal 4, emphasizing infrastructure that demonstrates resilience and access to sustainable services.
The unwavering commitment and dedication of all involved exemplify the highest standards of service in the Virgin Islands Public Service. Their efforts reflect a profound sense of duty and responsibility, essential for fostering a resilient and effective public service that meets our community's needs.
In conclusion, I invite all members of this Honourable House to support this initiative and encourage their constituents to take advantage of the Water and Sewerage Payment Portal. Together, we can build a more efficient and responsive public service for all.
Madam Speaker I thank you.
