The Water and Sewerage Company (WASCO) is urging Saint Lucians to exercise patience and respect, following reports that employees answering customer service lines have been subjected to verbal abuse.
Chief Executive Officer Zilta Leslie George addressed the matter at a press briefing on Friday, expressing deep concern over recordings now circulating online of members of the public lashing out at staff.
“Behind every phone call, every field worker, and every manager, there is a human being…”We recognize the frustration of households without running water. But to subject our staff to insults and obscenities is simply unacceptable. It is demoralizing to people who are doing everything in their power to help.”
She explained that the island’s water challenges are compounded by climate change, a crisis affecting several Caribbean countries simultaneously. She noted that while pipeline supply has been disrupted, WASCO teams continue to work “day and night” to manage the situation and restore services where possible.
The utility company’s leader appealed to citizens to show compassion and civility, even in moments of frustration. “We are committed to serving every customer,” George affirmed. “But we need the public to remember that our employees deserve dignity and respect.”
