Dear Editor
THE previous Administration was heavily criticised and even exposed by audit reports for condoning substandard work from many contractors in Region Two, some of whom are still bidding for contracts. This unethical practice would have cost the Region millions of dollars, since some of the projects would have collapsed while others had to be re-done, including many streets, sluices and state buildings. It appeared that many of these projects were not properly supervised, examined and even evaluated by the relevant authorities before payment was done to the defaulting contractors.
It meant also that the Administration had to submit additional budgetary claims to remedy some of the faulty projects; hence other developmental work had to be withheld. Notwithstanding, the present scenario has been gradually reversing with the timely intervention of the Regional Executive Officer, Mr. Rupert Hopkinson, who has been demanding value for money from every conceivable contract undertaken by the Region. Such an approach has also gained much criticism since in some instances payment was withheld until proper verification could have been done by officers, including the engineer. Mr. Hopkinson has also ensured that technical officers visit sites regularly where work is being done to ensure that they are completed, based on specification and the appropriate material is used to complete same. There were several instances whereby contractors would have used substandard and cheaper material while undertaking contracts, yet they were paid and continue to enjoy the confidence of the previous administration. Complaints were also made by concerned citizens who were generally affected by substandard work, though little was done to address the issue.
I am aware, however, that Mr. Hopkinson is constantly engaging all contractors doing work with the Region to uphold ethical, principled and professional standards in the execution of their obligated contracts. He has been very vocal in this regard, since it is his mandate to ensure that the residents of Region Two receive the best in the delivery of goods and services. In fact, he has implemented a register of contractors who will be constantly monitored in tandem with the regional Tender Board to ensure their performance is acceptable. Some were even previously cautioned for long periods of delay and even their inability to complete projects due to lack of appropriate equipment and labour. Mr. Hopkinson would have also personally undertook to oversee some of the developmental works, including the creation of visiting parks, landscaping of state compounds as well as along the roadways.
The much admired planting and maintaining of palm trees in front of the Administrative building and along the main road are projects that have personally gained the attention of the REO. Accountability, transparency and due diligence are critical steps that have served to alleviate unnecessary and wasteful spending of much scarce financial resources of the Administration and which would have been enhanced by the prudent management and pivotal direction of Mr. Hopkinson. It is therefore to the benefit and satisfaction of the residents that Region Two is progressing steadily, particularly with regard to stamping out corruption and having more resources at the Administration’s disposal to undertake further development in the areas of education, agriculture, sports and health. In doing so, Mr. Hopkinson remains steadfast in demanding quality and due performance from every conceivable contractor.
Regards
Elroy Stephney