The National Water Commission (NWC) is encouraging micro, small and medium-sized enterprises MSME’s to take advantage of its amnesty, which has been extended to December 31.

The initiative is intended to give these entities an opportunity to clear their outstanding water bills and restore their accounts with the commission.

It was originally scheduled for September 1 to November 30, but was extended due to Hurricane Melissa.

Content Creation and Development Manager at the NWC, Andrew Canon says the company is encouraging small businesses to apply for the amnesty to have arrears written-off, or get a reprieve.

Mr. Canon gave the update to the Jamaica information Service.

Under the programme, a 50 per cent write-off is being offered to small business customers with accounts that are inactive and disconnected for more than three months, and active accounts with debts of more than $30,000 for over 180 days.

In addition, accounts that qualify will be granted up to three months to clear the remaining arrears without disconnection.

In special cases, the NWC may also approve negotiated settlement terms.

Customers who qualify for the amnesty will also receive a 100 per cent waiver on reconnection fees where applicable.