Dear Editor
THERE has been scathing criticism of REO, Mr. Rupert Hopkinson’s slothfulness in addressing financial matters regarding his Administration in Region 2. This is particularly related to countersigning unto payment vouchers and contracts that would have been undertaken. Notwithstanding, the meticulous manner in which Mr. Hopkinson confronts such challenges is reasonably justifiable given his profusely adept concept of verification before assigning his signature on a document. He has consistently demonstrated a sense of thoroughness in managing the financial resources at his disposal while exercising due process in every practical step.
He has publicly exposed instances of corrupt practices, some of which he inherited. In such circumstances, he has had cause to withhold and even cancelled his signature from a number of questionable and flawed payment vouchers. In another instance, building materials were being mismanaged and even disappeared without knowledge. He has since introduced checks and balances to reduce such mass financial risk by employing a clerk of works who will now verify and monitor all building supplies, including used materials which are supposed to be returned as assets of the state. Much to the Region’s benefit and as a means of cost recovery, a number of newly recruited Rangers are now deployed into the agricultural domains to monitor drainage and irrigation and to ensure that trench cleaners adequately deliver, based on the specification of their contract. Incidentally, trench cleaning has been a burning issue over the years since in some instances payments were made even before the trenches and canals were properly cleaned. However, this scenario no longer exists since Mr. Hopkinson would have given clear directives and demanded that verification be done before approval is given to pay. Standing operational procedures also are many times compromised and this has been repeatedly identified in state audit reports. Conscientiously and with due diligence by the Administration has contributed appreciably to enhancing the manner in which the procurement of goods and services and adhering to tender board procedures in the awarding of contracts.
Further, the minimizing of overpayment, particularly in the education sector is another positive measure. Significantly too, as at December 31st 2016, Region 2 realized in excess of $147 million dollars in current and capital savings which were utilized on several plausible projects, including the restoration of the once crippling State House and other dilapidated and abandoned government buildings which are now available for professional staff to occupy, especially those residing out of the district. Continually, as at August 3rd, 2017, the Region has already accrued 93.6 million in savings which will be injected into new projects; some of which have been already identified and are expected to be completed by the end of the third quarter of this year.
Mr. Hopkinson has also demanded the filling of vacancies, including the appointment of a Deputy Regional Executive Officer (DREO) to support his drive for the timely and effective implementation of policies and programmes as well as in accordance with the policy of the Government, including the promotion of a green economy. It is to his credit therefore that gradual but pivotal steps have been taken in the exercise of championing the cause for transparency, accountability and the rule of law. His profound and tactful managerial skills (holder of Bachelor’s degrees in Management Science and economics as well as a Master’s Degree in Agricultural Economics) are also quite impressive and evident based on his sound judgment in his quest to transform Region 2 socially, culturally and economically. Mr. Hopkinson remains incorruptible and continues to challenge his workforce to steadfastly develop an institutionalized culture of professionalism, commitment and care for the utilization of state property. While he is confronted with stern resistance in some quarters, his souring confidence and versatility have wittingly outweighed much of the unfounded critics as he remain resolute in not condoning corruption under his watch as the REO of Region 2.
Regards
Elroy Stephney