PM wants corruption-free contractor bidding

The Prime Minister this morning called for a "complete elimination" of corruption in the awarding of contracts for construction projects.

At a sod-turning ceremony for the Diego Martin pedestrian walkover at the Four Roads Government Primary School, Dr Rowley remarked on the cost of the walkover's construction at $10.87 million and said it was necessary for the government and the public to get value for money from contractors.

"It is important for us to have effective, honest and transparent competition in the bidding process so that we can get the best prices from our contractors. If there is corruption in the award of contracts in this country, we eliminate such, because at the end of the day, we benefit by getting more for the expenditure of the taxpayer."

Rowley also used the example of the Curepe overpass, which is expected to be built for $200 million less than its original estimate. He said the money saved from that project could give the country 12 to 15 other overpasses.