A new scheme to save fresh water by treating sea water could be up and running within a year, said The Minister of Works and Engineering.

Ashfield DeVent told the House of Assembly yesterday that in the future a scheme is in hand to increase the availability of fresh water by treating seawater.

"However, this will not be operational for at least another year and we must all continue to be vigilant in the conservation of water," Mr. DeVent said.

Due to less than average rainfall in 2004 the Ministry of Works and Engineering will reduce operating hours for the truckers' outlets.

that the Ministry will also maximise the availability of water by reducing the number of leaks in the system, upgrading pipelines and extending treatment works where possible.

Mr. DeVent said the public should take responsibility in water conservation as well.

Some ways to conserve water he said were checking for and fixing leeks, taking quick showers instead of baths, and not ordering excessive amounts of water.

Posters and leaflets informing the public how to save water will be distributed to all Government buildings and to the general public, he said.

Mr. DeVent suggested members of Government and the opposition should lead by example in the efforts to save water.

He thanked truckers for not accepting orders for excessive amounts and respecting the operating times of the outlets.

"The Ministry will continue to manage the availability of water so that as far as is possible everyone will continue to be supplied, even though it may be less than normal," said Mr. De Vent.