There are no funds for investment in the water supply and sewerage sector and members of staff do not stay for a long time because of low payment. These are the main problems pointed out at a meeting of representatives of the water supply companies with the State Energy and Water Regulatory Committee (SEWRC).

These were some of the main reasons due to which the companies requested higher water prices. They voiced disagreement with the SEWRC-proposed prices.

Other motives behind the demands for higher water prices involve the mark up of prices of electricity and construction materials. Most companies have loans, which they would not service, if the increase is not effected.

Possibilities are needed to upgrade the systems so as to set up a common investment environment for the extension of the existing fixed assets and the introduction of new ones. "We are concerned about the effect the new charges would have on the consumers," Mihalevski stated.

He appealed to the companies' managements to consider the SEWERC report by the week's end and hold a new meeting next week so as to seek solution of the specific problems.

"What matters is to be sufficiently transparent and enjoy the consumers confidence," Mihalevski said.