A One Bermuda Alliance member has pledged to hold the Government accountable on its commitment to tackle water issues in the constituency where he ran.

David Rogers welcomed the promise to restore infrastructure in the Cedar Park area of Devonshire — but warned that failure to do so could result in “dire consequences”.

He said: “During my time canvassing the area, I was alarmed by the length of time residents have been forced to endure discoloured, questionable water.

“Many expressed their frustration at being left to fend for themselves, spending exorbitant amounts on bottled water just to cook, drink and maintain basic hygiene.

“If the Government is serious about fixing this, they will find no stronger supporter than me.

“However, failure to act comes with dire consequences.”

Mr Rogers’s comments came after Andrew Murdoch, the Governor, shared the Government’s promise of infrastructure improvements for the neighbourhood in the Speech from the Throne on March 14.

Residents of the area, which includes Mary Victoria Road and Alexandra Road, welcomed the help after years of dealing with problems such as clean water.

Mr Rogers acknowledged the longstanding problems and said it was “heartening” to finally see them addressed.

He said that brown water was a “public health hazard” that could hold contaminants, including micro-organisms or chemicals such as nitrates and heavy metals.

Mr Rogers also referenced World Water Day, which recognises the importance of clean water for sanitation and hygiene, and was observed on Saturday.

He said: “Clean water is a fundamental right, not a luxury.

“If we can recognise its importance on a global scale, we must also ensure that our own communities do not suffer from neglect.

“Words in the Throne Speech are a start, but action is what truly matters.”