Fisheries and Environment Minister, Honourable Kevin J. MacAdam, today released the results of a recent client satisfaction survey of Islanders regarding services provided by the Water Resources Division. Mr. MacAdam reported that 92 percent of the clients surveyed were either, very satisfied, or satisfied, with the service they received from the Division. "Ongoing efforts to streamline and improve quality of service to Islanders prompted the survey and the results are very heartening," said the Minister.
Mr. MacAdam sees the 92 percent figure as a very positive endorsement of the services and staff of the Water Resources Division. In expressing his views the Minister quoted the independent survey report, saying "there were a great many positive comments on the professionalism and expertise of staff, the quality of advice and the general willingness to go out of their way to help a client solve a problem." Mr. MacAdam went on to say that, "particularly encouraging were the comments from municipalities and industry surveyed that expressed their satisfaction with the engineering staff and services related to sewer and water systems."
Surveyors questioned clients on their level of satisfaction with services provided in nine different program areas. These areas included testing of drinking water, well drillers, septic system pumpers, watercourse and wetland alterations, shore sand removal permits, agricultural irrigation, groundwater exploration permits and water allocations for high capacity wells and services to municipal and industrial sewer and water utilities. They questioned clients on turn around time of services related to water testing and permit approvals, courteousness and professionalism of staff, the quality and clarity of information and advice, the accessibility of services, and where fees are involved, the cost and value of services provided.
Two hundred and ninety-two telephone and ten personal interviews were conducted. The client base for the survey was selected from individuals, municipalities and corporations that used the services of the Division over the past two years.
While recognizing a positive report, Mr. MacAdam also offered reassurance regarding the future of Island water. "Everyone must work together to protect our valuable water resource and my Department will continue to offer high quality service to Islanders as we work toward this goal," said Mr. MacAdam.