We find it regrettable to have to descend to the level of discourse of Prime Minister Skerrit in order to clarify some deliberate misinformation, and an apparent intention to deceive and mislead the public, on his part with regards to business engagements between ACE Engineering Ltd and the government of the Commonwealth of Dominica. We refer to a publication on Dominica News Online (DNO) dated 10th September 2014 and captioned “PM Wades into Roseau Promenade Project Controversy”.
It is not certain why the Prime Minister does not want to hold a mature discussion on the issues of transparent public procurement practices and the coming into force of PPCA Act. In fact, he has been unable to hold any discussions with BCAD in this area after no less than four (4) invitations to do so over the last 2 ½ years.
The matter at hand is not a George Nanthan vs ACE Engineering Ltd issue. It is rather unfortunate how some members of the public have been unkind to Mr George Nanthan, his reputation and that of his company. The issue is beyond any contractor. Mr George Nanthan did not award himself a contract; the process has failed the taxpayer, and may have revealed situations which are in conflict with the government’s desire to manage scarce finances.
In the above-referred article, the prime minister is said to assert that we are often quiet. There are times when we are deliberately publicly quiet while we seek to dialogue, through civic or private sector led organisations to get some meaningful public/private sector corporation on matters of critical national interest. This includes work with the Caribbean Growth Forum, CVQ project, Public Procurement, the Service Sector, BCAD, Business Forum, etc. We do understand that many of our politicians may not be able to, or may not have the capacity or management skills, to separate national issues from personal petty politics. The Prime Minister has demonstrated that so clearly in recent times. We recognise the need to collaborate in building one Dominica. We understand that this public confrontation does cost our country, but one has to stand-up and maintain principles even in the face of personal attacks on the messenger.
The following are ACE Engineering Ltd’s engagements with the Government of Dominica from 2004. The 1st Table indicates works for which we were engaged as the main contractor. The 2nd Table indicates works in which we formed partnerships with international, regional and local partners to place and win bids.
| Table 1: Public Sector works undertaken by ACE Engineering Ltd as Main Contractor. | ||||
| Project | Year Contracted | Funding | Procurement | |
| Carib Territory – St Cyr Resource Centre | Aug-13 | CDB | Public Tender | |
| West Coast Water Supply Lot 1 | Mar-12 | EU | Public Tender | |
| Capuchin Water Supply | Jun-09 | CDB- BNTF | Public Tender | |
| Fond St Jean Sea Defense | Dec-08 | GOCD | Public Tender | |
| Road Maintenance – Bellevue Chopin | Feb-08 | GOCD | Invitation | |
| Road Maintenance – Boetica / Delice | Dec-06 | GOCD | Invitation | |
| NHC Retaining Walls | May-06 | CDB- BNTF | Public Tender | |
| Castle Bruce Drainage | May-05 | EU | Public Tender | |
| Feeder Road rehabilitation at Gros Morne & Carholm | Mar-05 | EU | Public Tender | |
| Road Maintenance – Sourfiiere/ Scotts Head | Aug-04 | GOCD | Invitation | |
| Road Maintenance – West Coast | May-04 | GOCD | Invitation | |
| Table 2: Public Sector works Undertaken by ACE Engineering Ltd as Subcontractor | |||||
| Project | Year Contracted | Funding | Procurement | Main Contractor | |
| Point Michel Sea Defense | Mar-11 | CDB | Public Tender | CO Williams | |
| Road Maintenance- Loubiere/ Grand Bay | Mar-10 | EU | Public Tender | CO Williams | |
| Melville Hall Airport Package 2 | Mar-10 | EU | Public Tender | COLAS GAUDELOUPE | |
| Calibishie Irrigation | Apr-10 | EU | Public Tender | FARMEX | |
| Castle Bruce Irrigation | Apr-05 | EU | Public Tender | FARMEX | |
| Laudat Lake roads | Aug-04 | CDB | Public Tender | Public Works Division (PWD) | |
All the engagements entered into by invitation were road maintenance works to a total value of about EC $900,000.00 between 2004 and 2008. Prior to 2003, only the government’s Public Works Division (PWD) had any asphalt surface dressing equipment on island. In 2003, ACE Engineering Ltd invested in asphalt surface dressing equipment to increase the local capacity in providing services with this equipment. Being the only other local contractor with the equipment and skills to undertake these works, the then Ministry of Public Works engaged us the few times that either the PWD was unable to undertake such works or when we were both invited and we provided a pricing advantage to the government. At least they had historical and current pricing from PWD to compare. How else could the government procure this work? The PPCA Act provides for this type of restricted tender process under Section 33.
In all of these cases we were approached by and submitted tenders to the Technical Services Divisions (TSD), the Chief Technical Officer or Permanent Secretary.
What the Prime Minister does not say is that Roosevelt Skerrit approached Anthony E. Le Blanc directly on a few occasions for direct engagement to provide services in public works. On each occasion the PM was asked that the works in question be channelled through the TSD in the normal way and be opened to other parties as well.
One occasion is recalled following a cocktail hosted by the Venezuelan Embassy the on occasion of that country’s anniversary at the old State House, in 2007. On the steps of the State House, Mr Skerrit invited Mr Le Blanc to discuss work engagements with him. A meeting was convened the following Saturday morning at his residence in Morne Bruce. Mr Collin McIntyre was in attendance. Works on the Vieille Case – Blenheim Road were discussed in which the PM suggested that he would name some subcontractors. Mr Le Blanc indicated that ACE Engineering Ltd would consider the works if it was done through the normal route of the TSD and that the company would decide on subcontractors on a business basis. This proved unacceptable; we were never invited to tender for the works.
Another occasion involved an impromptu meeting in Mr Le Blanc’s driveway with Mr Skerrit, Mr McIntyre, and Senator Nassief in summer of 2007. On this occasion the PM requested that Mr Le Blanc collect from his office documents for works involving both the Federation Drive rehabilitation works and Blenheim Thibaud road works. Mr Le Blanc again indicated that should the documents be available through the TSD we would be happy to pick these up. In a telephone conversation with Senator Nassief about two weeks later, the matter came up and Mr Le Blanc reiterated ACE Engineering Ltd’s position. Nonetheless, as a means of courtesy to the Senator, we had our secretary make one inquiry for the documents at the PM’s office; we did not obtain the documents. We were never invited officially by the TSD to tender on these works.
There are several other procurement events where we had the opportunity to present proposals to the government and were not awarded contracts. These include Carib Territory Roads, Robinson Road in Morne Prosper, Tan Tan Sea Defence and road works, Car Parks at Trafalgar Falls and Emerald Pool, Jimmit Phase 3 Sewage works, Botanical Gardens Irrigation Project, several EU and CDB funded projects, among others.
We would like Mr Skerrit to indicate which works that his administration has handed to ACE Engineering Ltd. Our accounts are independently audited annually, and the Inland Revenue Division can legally call upon us to do spot audits. We challenge him to get an undertaking by either of these that the information we give is not authentic, or that what he purports to say has any glimmer of truth.
It is instructive to note that the last few minutes of the Next Level radio program of 13th November 2010 alleged the following:
I. That government has assisted tens of small contractors with performance and bid bond requirements.
II. One or two of these contractors are still complaining after they were assisted.
III. ACE Engineering Ltd was one of these complaining contractors who had received EC $ 1 M in bid bond assistance from the Government of Dominica.
One may recall that the radio show of 13th November 2010 was aimed at destroying the local business of Jerry Brisbane who had been critical of government’s procurement practices, and to tell to shut up anyone else who had on any occasion expressed any concern or solidarity with that cause. We issued a press statement on 30th November 2010 in response to the allegations of Mr Skerrit through three disciples (including the current President Charles Severin) on that show. To date, Mr Skerrit and his team have not mustered the courage of men of substance to issue an apology for the contents of this radio show.
It is fitting to end here as we ended in 2010:
“Our aim is … to encourage an awakening of conscience and repentance. To encourage reflection on the government’s objectives of a radio show saddled with mischief and malice.
We hope we have stimulated a sense of mutual tolerance, zeal for a peaceful civilized society, openness not only to allow the voices of dissent to be heard, but to be examined critically for potential benefits towards the greater good. It is time we separate political agenda from developmental strategies. We need leadership in governance. We have an ample amount of political leadership, what we lack is capacity in strategic governance for enhanced and sustainable development of our beloved country.”
Thank You
Signed.
Anthony E Le Blanc and Christopher B. Sorhaindo
Directors of ACE Engineering Ltd.
Is Anthony Leblanc related to E O Leblanc he sounds like a Dominican hero?
people is not about just getting contracts from the government its about transparency and accountability of the issuing of the contracts
skerit has tried that will most contractors on the island i know of a second company that he approached is all about buying out the allegiance of every aspect of the country
he needs to be more mature as a PM shame on you PM you have open another can of worms
The PM Advisory from the advice-or to his brother was made in detailed so the brother can win the bid when ever its being submitted; I smell kick-back
Some people are just to dam greedy the slogan is “ALL SHALL EAT” you lost this bid but you got other bids what is the big deal. Stupssss
I commend you gentlemen for taking a principled stance at the risk of not getting any more work from this government. You are true examples to our people and we wish you all the best in your endeavours. Stand firm, rise and speak truthfully no matter the consequence and you shall be rewarded!!! Peace be with you…………
Ever thought of a reason why the Leblanc’s are always on the radio going after Skerrit. Not long ago another Le Blanc called “Pappay Joe”, Tony’s brother was on the radio going after Skerrit for some land above the village of Thibaud on your way to Veille Case. Tony has always been there crying each time he does not win an award. In the first table there is roughly fifty percent difference between what he won and what he lost. He won 4 contracts by “invited offer” and won 6 by Public Tender. The fact that you admitted to having been offered several other works by “invited offer” says much. Why would Tony see “corruption” in every invitation to tender for a job? Is Tony really saying that each time his company is invited to tender for a job, there is corruption? Well Tony you are really good. You can see corruption form long distance.
I believe what is happening appears to be “generational quarrels” between two large families from a small village. Both have made it unto the national stage and so the Le Blanc brothers are bent on perpetuating the old familial legacy. I could be wrong, but that is what I see. Why would you want to refuse jobs you know you are eminently qualified to undertake and then turn around and point to corruption?
@Watcher: There is non so blind as he who will not see.
Tony case is clear and has refused to accept jobs not going thru TSD. Are you blind? Tony I admire your courage even if it may cost you a few less projects, but as the bible says” Who God bless no man curse.” May the peace of God continue to dwell and live within you and may the good God bless your company richly.
Watcher you seem to be a classic idiot; go read again the acticle written by Tony and see if this time you can comprehend the article. And if u do invite the PM to respond soberly as Tony did.
One of the lessons from ACE’s dealing with the State is one we should emulate: Do not accept favours from politicians because they will come back to embarrass you!
Skerrit as Prime- minister of Dominica is a classic case of Anachronism. Skerrit is a textbook example of how not to be a Prime- minister.
Tony I applaud your persistence. You have gone to an area where many are afraid to go. We all know that the PM is a pathological liar. Behind a chronic liar is someone who feels he or she is incapable and weak
Bull and more bull you lost the bid, deal with it. According to your record you won some, did you expect to win all?
So sad that you can’t read and comprehend and people like you with limited capacity that has this lovely country so backyard when it comes to governance . Poor Dominica,
its so sad in this country…once you share different views you are automatically throw to the lions..but i applaud mr leblanc for coming out with facts..if the PM is really the KING..i challenge him to come with his documented facts as well………
does dat look like a document !
GREAT JOB ACE! May God continue to richly bless your company.
It’s politics and it happens on both sides. Put the other party in power and you get the same thing. Only difference is this guy is wrapped up in investments to do serious work and not seeing return on his company’s investment, whereas the main employer is showing favoritism.
I remember when a minister from the other side when they were in power used his inside info and purchased a whole lot of lumber and building materials because he know they were about to pass a law to allow duty-free on such for a short time. By the time the public found out, that was about to expire but he already had lots of building material to retail. It’s a shame on both sides, now Tony just throw his hat in the politics (for good reason), for what it’s worth.
Ok. So you do get work from the government.
WOW! Sad, sad sad. What does Rupert think?
mr leblanc if what you are saying is the truth you are a giant and those who are trying to paint you and ace engineering black are like ants under you.{Hats off to you sir i applaud you}
Wow smh that Goverment have to nonscence going on in that country
It is a shame what is going on in Dominica. I really cannot understand why Mr. Skerrit cannot seperate the affairs of Gov’t and his Labour policies. Everytime he speaks he lets his tounge loose. This is not the Labour Party of Roosie & Pierro, Shame!!!
I have always been proud of Mr. LeBlanc and his family. So happy that we have at least one Catholic man that can say to Skerrit, enough is enough. I wish our Bishop and priest would take a page from Mr. Le Blanc book of integrity., Honesty and Fair play.
Some people can create a scandal and expend their energy to tarnish the good name of others.
LeBlanc, you did not get the job. Why all this? What if you had got the job? We know you would not be stating this. It depicts a person scorned. Since money is involved, not getting the job obviously you are angry, disappointed and envious which is the reason why you are carrying-on as you do and digging up old information.
Is this worth your time and energy? I do think you are stirring up trouble, division, disunity and unrest, more of it in Dominica.
Peace perfect peace!
The PM is no saint but the person that was the adviser to ACE on this public crap should be fired. I am a businessman and i don’t care what the problem is you don’t bite the hands that feed you. And that nonsense will only happen in Dominica. You think i care who gets or don’t get a contract in my field. When they call me i am happy to take the call.
We need Change!
Don’t even care about anything else .. we just need a new driver at the helm! Then we need term limits! No leader should lead for more than 2 terms!
on that i agree then skerrit can led for two more terms then give over to rayburn…..jus an observation….
I think the ‘ACE’ should call a ‘SPADE’ a ‘SPADE’. An ‘ACE’ can’t beat a ‘KING’ (PM) and two ‘JACKS’ (Minister and PS). NO RETREAT NO RE-TENDER..! …..
(Buju Remix….)
If you think you are clever, you are on your own!!
I think the ‘ACE’ should call a ‘SPADE’ a ‘SPADE’. You can’t beat a ‘KING’ (PM) and two ‘JACKS’ (Minister and PS). NO RETREAT NO RE-TENDER..! …..
(Buju Remix….)
The PM cannot make the difference between the government and the Labour party.
He cannot face anyone who will challenge him. He only opens his mouth on his so-called next level program, where he cannot be questioned. All his disciples on the SHOW does, is worship him.
Your days are numbered. Labour Powder
What does the article prove? That he won some of the government bids? He lost the last one he should deal with it. Live and let live
did you even read the article? goes to show …..
Anonymous….It proves the PM is telling lies about giving the guy jobs which were never tendered because he spoke out.
Plain and Simple…..
Also he has given an easy way to check , speak with Inland Revenue they will show the jobs taxes was collected on which can be cross check with his list….to see if any contracts were left out.
WOW!!! EVERENDING STORY
Like a broken record; repetitious which will tire people.
Yes I skerrit surprise me
I know. He is good isn’t he? Greatest leader Dominica have ever seen.
Officials of Ace I applaud you for maintaining integrity in business. That’s a lesson to the rest of the business community.
To bad Anthony, no more projects for Ace from the GOCD, so you are power mad. You created problem so deal with it and find another venue.
If your name is concern ,then you should be very concerned about this trend our beloved country is taking ,and remember ,this country does;nt belong to skeritt,
I applaud you ace, we need more like you
There are times it is over-exaggeration as a storm in a teapot. It is much ado about nothing and wasting people’s time.
THANKS ACE
the culture that has been created by this Govt. where can say any thing to denigrate some one character in there defence once they speaks with a different opinion has now come to an end
people would normally put their tail in there bottom and move on because they fear what will happen to them and the same shit keep going on.
you guys has made us proud by standing to this oppressive regime and maintaining such high standard
Thanks Mr. Leblanc…..Truth to Power.
I guess they never realized you kept notes which every good businessman should do.
I applauded you standing up for what is right to help the proper development of our country.
He must have expended much time doing a research to prove to you people that he is correct. Not everyone is interested in this. He does not know to live and let live and let sleeping dogs lie. By the latter I mean, he did not get the job. Let it be; leave it alone and carry on with his life. He will be happier for it.
I highly commend Mr. Leblanc and Mr. Sorhaindo. You guys have espoused a clear sense of maturity and a willingness to rightfully educate the (objective) public.
Consider, if he got the job he would not waste his time to compile all this information.
whereas I have much respect for your professional and technical expertise in engineering and construction, I find it very unsettling that you persist with this unending harangue of the leader of this country as if you were a political operative. Move on!
Engineers depend on facts, politicians depend on people.
Of course, you would find this unsettling Winston. The truth is not always palatable, is it. Please, persist Anthony. We have to strip this government to its bare bones before we can start to make things better.
How do you propose to make things better and who else could? We are waiting to see and hear about it.
@winston warrington – One word to describe your comment
above – Utter rubbish!!!!
He has stated facts.
I have lost all respect for you Winston. It is the Mr. Leblanc’s right to defend his good name, which is being maligned by the PM and his operatives.
You cannot be the same Winston Warrington the engineer? No. Your comment is shameful.
You heard and read Skerrit’s attack on Tony and ACE and they should just leave at that.
You know who is going to leave it at that? Skerrit and his thugs, these are the FACTS Warrington and it is impossible for them to respond. If they do it will be more mepuis, you better advise this bunch of rogues we have posing as a government.
BTW a little lady from Vielle Case said stupes from Roseau to Vielle Case on the bus after the Labour Party theater of the absurd and pappyshow last week Thursday, and saying WHAT ROOSEVELT DO US THERE NUH!
Stop that blind support Warrington, you know better and that is why you are not in Dominica.
sweep it under the carpet and lets move on thats good for you – but things of less sustance and importance like plagirism can make news headlines and take up 3 and half hours of party proganda in Lagou and that for you is more important how sad; how sad indeed when we have people like you supporting such blatant corruption. I sometimes what the so called Freedomites like Rupert Sohraindo, Charles Saverin, Parry Bellot and the others now in the blossom of Labour would have said if that was PJ doing those things in the 70’s oh boy they would have skinned him alive; what a shame eh boy!!.
expose them!
Bad
Mr. Leblanc I am getting goose bumps reading this. I was very close to loosing hope in intellectuals in my country. You have just created a spark which I hope others can fuel. Its time for honest people to take back the country and let their voices be heard. I am not going to say much about our leadership. You have said it better here. Let those who have eyes to see read, and those with commonsense understand. You deserve a national day medal for integrity in private Service.
How do you conclude that it is integrity. What proof do you have?
never in my life time have i seen a government ,organization,entity or even an individual in such controversies,Dominicans open your eyes because Dominica is heading to doom land
Are you not aware you reside in an aggressive, a disobedient, rebellious and radical world? People as he have changed. It depends who and what you want to believe.
yes is true under UWP policies….u’re so rite
Wow! Looks like Crapaud just smoke your pipe mr. Skerrit.
i’m so proud of you guys !!!
real man have to stand to say the truth!
Take that one Skerrit, if you are a real man please respond. But I suppose you will cower under the skirts of Tony who is incapable of dealing with the truth.
So I expect silence on this one.
Change!
We reside in a scandalous age. You do know there are two sides to a story. Do not only believe one side. Do your research and your homework. Some people will fabricate a story to make it look like it is true.
“What the Prime Minister does not say is that Roosevelt Skerrit approached Anthony E. Le Blanc directly on a few occasions for direct engagement to provide services in public works. On each occasion the PM was asked that the works in question be channelled through the TSD in the normal way and be opened to other parties as well.”
Same thing Ian Douglas said about him, if you turn your back and get a glass of water….
He say…. she say….
Tony shouldn’t worry because when Linton comes in he will get to chose all the contracts that he wants. UWP is with Tony all the way.
That is where you are wrong my friend. What Tony will get is every opportunity to compete fairly and openly for every public contract, like veryone else, in the interest of the country. And you know what? Tony would not want it any other way.