Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill, says that contracted companies must be held accountable for unacceptable works. He said that the Government will soon introduce blacklisting legislation for companies that fail to produce works done.
Speaking at a press conference hosted by the Ministry of Public Works to review the highs and lows of 2021, Ministry Edghill pointed out that over time the Government has put up with contractors failing to produce on works.
As such, the Government will be focusing on legislation that will seek to block companies from participating in the awarding of contracts.
“We need to get a register of contractors that would be very efficient in terms of management because we also have to look at what you might want to call blacklisting legislation or debarment legislation. That is something that needs to be examined.”
Over years the PPP/C while in Opposition was critical of contracts being handed out to individuals who would not complete in works in the specified time nor in the prescribed manner.
Now in office, the PPP/C Government has taken several contractors to court and in some instances has also issued warning documents.
The court seems like the only way to turn to for recourse, Minister Edghill pointed out. There remains a need for legislation to block those seeking contracts, and who in the past have not fulfilled their obligation on a technical side of things.
There Is a need for the Ministry to play a greater role in ensuring, also, that the contract is handed to the right person.
“The legislative framework for blacklisting contractors lies with the Ministry of Finance and the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board. That was in my previous life. In this life, I have to depend on them but we have made the necessary recommendations and suggestions at the Ministry.”
“When it comes to awarding contracts we have the responsibility to ensure that when they are engaging a contractor, he is someone who has the reputation and who could get the job done.”
Minister Edghill added that this is needed since it is the Ministry with the technical support that will ensure the contracts are signed by the right person.
“While there is no legislation, we are keeping a very clear eye out on non-performing contractors, contractors who lack the capability or who do shoddy work”
Mr. Edghill said that this is to ensure that the records at the ministry remain clear and that the contract was handed out to the right contractor.
