Procurement Board at last
The appointment at last, on Friday of the inaugural Procurement Board is a signal moment in this country’s history. It marks the first serious attempt since the passing of the 1961 act establishing the Central Tenders Board to eradicate sleaze in public affairs.
Under the Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Property Act 2015, the new board has tremendous powers, powers which not even the Central Tenders Board has.
The new appointees can investigate, conduct audits and inspections and, crucially, give orders to any public body, from State-controlled enterprises right up to the Office of the President.
The importance of the new system cannot be over-emphasised. Given our country’s history of graft — from O’Halloran right up to LifeSport – there is a clear and present need to protect the public purse.
The slowdown in the economy also means systems championing the values of integrity, value for money and inclusion of local content are more crucial than ever.
While we welcome the appointment, we cannot help but express dismay over the inordinate length of time that has elapsed since the passing of the 2015 legislation, which was itself the end product of a legislative process that took five years. The State needs to do a better job when it comes to passing legislation, setting up public agencies and devising regulations.
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Image: Trinidad and Tobago Newsday
Who are these board members?
Lisa,
It seems that the names have not yet been made publicly available.
The Ministry of Finance in Trinidad tends to publish on a regular basis the board of directors appointments made to state enterprises. So we are hopeful that the appointments made to the Central Tenders Board will soon be published.
However, if anyone has the names, please share 🙂