BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – WITH many questioning the government’s use of overseas consultants and contractors to undertake work in the construction of the new Basseterre High School, Prime Minister Dr. the Hon. Timothy Harris declared that all tender procedures have been followed.
Addressing reporters at his August 2, press conference, Dr. Harris was questioned on the procedures and tender process of several government projects under the spotlight, specifically the new Basseterre High School, the second Cruise Pier and the Heroes Park.
The Prime Minister declared that all procedures are being followed by his administration.
“Contracts for Capital Projects - all the rules related to the procurement have been followed by this administration and would always be followed by this administration.”
Dr. Harris stated that they always have tendering for such projects and had invited more than one contractor for due process.
“Indeed the Financial Secretary and the Deputy Financial Secretary would say that we often ask for three tenders, particularly if the Capital Project is of any magnitude.”
Pointing to the Heroes Park, the Prime Minister noted that there have been a “multiplicity” of contractors who are providing service to complete the area.
Over the past several months, the government has been and continues to be criticised by some members of the public and the opposition St. Kitts-Nevis Labour Party since it sought to remove students from the old Basseterre High School Campus, and also allegations of conflict of interest involving the Minister of Public Infrastructure, the Hon. Ian Liburd.
The Minister had registered a company that would be involved in the shipping of cement and other construction materials.
Liburd had however debunk those allegations, stating in media interviews that the company has not been fully registered and that it is within his right to establish a business entity.
