Articles
Concern for the Proclamation
of the Public Procurement and
Disposal of Public Property Act
The JCC addresses the Honourable Prime Minister
Request for Implementation of the Procurement Legislation in 2020
The JCC expresses ongoing concern for the proclamation of the Public Procurement & Disposal of Public Property Act (PPDPPA). You indicated to the Press on Sept 29th 2020 that ‘In a few weeks after the Budget debate, procurement legislation will be implemented’ (T&T Guardian 2020.09.29)
Please note that the Stewardship Report (Jan 2018 to Sept 2020) from the Office of the Procurement Regulator (OPR), was delivered to the Presidenet of the Senate on September 30th, 2020. From this report we have gleaned that the OPR last responded to queries from the Finance Minister on Dec 18th 2019; and subsequently met with the Legislative Review Committee of Cabinet (LRC) in March 2020. It is clarified in said report that the OPR is currently awaiting action by the Minister of Finance.
We at the JCC worry that any further procrastination to fully proclaim the PPDPPA would take us into 2021. We are therefore appealing to you to impose your will on the process in the best interest of institutional strengthening and governance. We are certain that your government understands that the Construction Sector is critical to T&T rebounding from the impact of the COVID19 pandemic and this legislation will buttress the need for accountability and due process as it relates to procurement at all levels in the society.
We look forward to your favourable consideration and remain available to assist in the process.
Yours sincerely,
JOINT CONSULTATIVE COUNCIL FOR THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY