By DENISE MAYCOCK

Tribune Freeport Reporter

dmaycock@tribunemedia.net

A NEWLY installed 750 kW generator has brought some relief to Grand Cay after months of crippling power outages, but residents say persistent water problems and a teacher shortage continue to disrupt daily life.

Chief Councillor George Russell told The Tribune yesterday that the new generator, installed at Walker’s Cay by Bahamas Power and Light (BPL), has eased one of the island’s most pressing concerns.

The upgrade replaced an aging 600 kW unit and is part of BPL’s wider effort to strengthen generation capacity across Abaco and its cays. Officials said the new unit is expected to significantly improve reliability after years of breakdowns and insufficient supply.

Still, Mr Russell said residents remain frustrated with poor water service. “The water improved a little bit, but it’s still not the way it should be,” he said.

Locals complained the interruptions have made it difficult for families and visitors alike, with basic tasks such as bathing, cooking, and laundry limited to short windows in the morning and evening. Officials have blamed ageing pumps and storage infrastructure for the recurring failures.

Mr Russell also raised concern about staffing at the island’s all-age school, which he said is still short of teachers.

“We do not have sufficient teachers; we are in need of two teachers,” he said, adding that he has already raised the matter with North Abaco MP Kirk Cornish, who assured him the vacancies will be filled.

Mr Russell said he recently held a phone conference with government officials and Mr Cornish to discuss the ongoing challenges. He added that residents are willing to give the government time to act but are watching closely to see whether the promised improvements materialise.

“We just want to give them the time now because we just came off the phone with them in the press conference,” he said.