Friday, December 11 – Minister for Health and Social Development, Honourable Dancia Penn, OBE, QC has suspended the Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing (MEP) works at the new Peebles Hospital.
In a statement issued this week, Honourable Penn explained that the suspension followed a recent independent inspection of the work at the multi-million dollar facility.
“Government recently commissioned an independent inspection of the Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing (MEP) works by Arup USA Inc, a global firm of consulting engineers, designers, planners, and project managers,” she stated.
The Health Minister explained that “The inspection of the MEP works was conducted in order to verify whether these critical systems had been designed and were being installed to a satisfactory standard, in line with government’s strategic objective to achieve a fully accredited facility”.
She further stated that, “The preliminary findings of those inspections raised serious concerns about these installations, and their scope for compromising the overall integrity of this important project. Pending receipt of the final report, which is expected this week, and in accordance with the contract, a notice of suspension was issued to the General Contractor specifically in relation to Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing, Medical Gases, and Fire Safety installations, by letter dated 19th November, 2009.”
Honourable Penn explained that the independent review was commissioned on advice and in accordance with the provisions of the contract, which entitles the government to examine, inspect, measure and test the materials and workmanship on site.
According to the Health Minister, the suspension notice only applies to the MEP and associated builder’s works. “All other works under the contract are expected to proceed as required by the contract,” she emphasised.
Honourable Penn affirmed government’s readiness to do everything within its powers and under the provisions of the contract to ensure that the suspension does not result in protracted delays. She assured that once the final report is received, “Our efforts will be directed towards ensuring that the remedial works commence as soon as possible to correct the problems identified, and, most importantly, that the hospital is completed to the standard required. The government will endeavour to keep the public fully informed of developments on this project.”
The Health Minister noted too that, “Government remained steadfast in its commitment to ensure that it received value for money on this project, which is one of the largest capital investments ever undertaken by any Government in the history of the Territory.”
Honourable Penn highlighted the value of the new hospital and its important social role in the community with the provision of health care for all members of society.
The Health Minister added, “It is because of this commitment and in keeping with our responsibility that some of the most competent professionals and experts have been hired to advise on specific technical aspects of the ongoing works at the New Peebles Hospital.”
The Ministry of Health and Social Development endeavours to provide leadership which promotes health, social wellness and a safe environment.
British Virgin Islands News