The Democratic Labour Party (DLP) has called on the Auditor General to carry out a special audit on the awards of contracts for the building of 250 upper and middle-income homes for Government.
Ricardo Harrison, shadow spokesman on housing, noted in a statement that the Government said the housing project was “urgent”, which led to its decision to bypass the tendering process normally associated with such projects, But he queried what special characteristics justified the urgency of these projects.
Citing examples, Harrison said: “Are these houses being built to shelter those persons who nightly make up their beds in the Bay Street Esplanade? Are they being built to assist tenants of the National Housing Corporation (NHC) whose units have fallen into disrepair? Will these houses be available for victims of domestic abuse and/or fire victims?”
Recalling the Financial Management and Audit and (Supplies) Rules with particular emphasis on clauses 204, 205 and 221, Harrison said: “The Accounting Office does not have to invite quotations for goods and services up to $50,000 but must ensure the best prices. However, when it comes to products and services between $50,000 and $200,000, an Accounting Officer or Permanent Secretary must obtain no less than three quotations for goods and services without going to tender. Tenders should be invited for any item over $200,000.”
He also asked the Minister of Housing Dr William Duguid to inform Barbadians “why the agreement with the potential landowners at Lancaster has suddenly been changed or cancelled”.
Harrison concluded: “What this administration has done regarding these housing projects is in clear breach of the financial rules and has been done under the guise of urgency.” He declared that while most Barbadians may not be surprised at what has taken place, they are still rather concerned about the matter. (DH)
