Document explains awarding of contract for Roseau River Promenade

George Nanton (left) signs the contract for phase one of the Roseau River Promenade
George Nanthan (left) signs the contract for phase one of the Roseau River Promenade

The ministry of public works has sought to explain the reason why a major project has been awarded to George Trucking & Excavation Services.

On August 25 it was announced that the contract for the construction of Phase One of the Roseau River Promenade was awarded to the company which is headed by George Nanthan to the tune of EC$560,176.

There has been some concern over whether the tendering process was done properly.

There are also allegations that the accepted tender is 24 percent, or approximately EC$108,000.00 more, than the lowest competitively priced tender.

A document made available to Dominica News Online, says that based on a cost analysis, George Trucking & Excavation Services was recommended, over four other tenderers, for the project.

According to the document, the budget estimate for the project provided by the technical services division of the Ministry of Public Works was $657,487 and the time stipulated was 14 weeks for completion.

The budget of companies that submitted tenders for the project could not be more than 5 percent higher or 15 percent lower than the budget estimates prepared by the technical services division.

Five companies submitted tenders; ACE Engineering Ltd, George Trucking and Excavation Services, Public Works Corporation, UNIQUE Construction Ltd and Caribbean Concrete Ltd.

The document shows that some of the tenders submitted either did not fall within the limits of the budget estimate of the technical services division or within the time frame that was stipulated for the completion of the project.

It also shows why George Trucking and Excavation Services was recommended for the project.

See the full document below.

Download (PDF, 680KB)

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88 Comments

  1. Vernon
    September 5, 2018

    I thought to be awarded a contract the company should be cleared both Income Tax and Social Security. George Nathan’s company did not clear social security according to the document that was provided.
    Was the social security clearance a qualifying criterion?

  2. patriot
    September 5, 2014

    OK Ace your ace in the pack of card tricks did non do the job.

  3. AP George
    September 5, 2014

    I don’t know what goes into the bid evaluation process, but if it’s just what the letter indicates, then this is rather subjective and seems a recipe for trouble.
    Are these companies further evaluated based on experience, expertise, completion/success rates, etc? There should be a more comprehensive rating and evaluation process for awarding bids.

  4. Brave Hart
    September 5, 2014

    From the document i conclude that this is bright day corruption and the government must be investigated. George Trucking won the bid because they did not pay social security. This government is too corrupt. Time for them to go

  5. Anonymous
    September 5, 2014

    But how can you conclude that ALL the necessary documents were submitted to the technical division and your own report showing in its true colours that a social security clearance was not provided.

  6. September 5, 2014

    If Nanton do that project like he did the back road in Cockrane , well heaven help us. I want to invite Dominican to go look at the job done on that back road. It took a greenhouse farmer turn contractor in Cockrane to complete the road just before rabbit festival. Shame ,,

  7. Engineer
    September 5, 2014

    The names of those Dominica contractors confuse the hell out of me. 1) ‘George Trucking and Excavating Company’ won the contract to build wall? Yes I know there is excavation during the process, but there is also building of wall- is that company qualified?
    2. ACE Engineering-you guys do design and build?; Is the project a Design/Build? Apparently, it seems like it was already designed by engineers in the ministry, who had the price for completing a project of that magnitude to a high level of accuracy;; that in itself is simply amazing. The estimation gods must reside in Dominica. 3) Caribbean Concrete, sound like a concrete supplier to me, not the one that would be actually constructing the wall.

    I am not an engineer practicing in Dominica, but I will just briefly share some light on the process I am familiar in the US. Firstly, government present their project concept and specifications to typically private engineering firm who work with architect to come up with plans,, structural and drainage, etc etc design, and engineering firm develops cost estimate, and project specifications, including contractor’s minimum experience performing the type of work to be undertaken. Typically the contract go to lowest bidder if they meet the other qualifications. Engineering firm often work with project owner to tender job, and then work with successful contractor, and review construction plan. Sometimes, contractors present good cost-saving ideas, and engineers should be mindful to look at all options, and don’t believe that whatever they (the engineer) present is the one and only way, and nothing else. Although, in some cases, there are little room for modification or alterations..
    Looking at this whole evaluation above, it just seems real fishy how they chose the contractor, among the others. Furthermore, in terms of time, 14 weeks just seems little time. Control the water flow alone for storm events is a big project, and be mindful that placing stones in front that wall will likely constrict the water flow, and hence increase the water velocity, which in turn may increase scour (undermining ) of the foundation.

  8. wellz
    September 5, 2014

    This is an interesting article & the bid process happens to be right you my alley.

    When public agencies put out a job for bid & bidders submit a responsive bid; these numbers are evaluated using the engineers estimate (EE). In this case this is what has occurred. On public projects the lowest bidder usually wins the award IF they meet all the requirements stipulated in the bid booklet. So the firm whose number was 31% below the EE clearly missed the mark b/c of reasons established during the bid period.

    It must be stated that the design engineers have the right to interview the 1st, 2nd & 3rd lowest bidder to determine if these firms can perform the work at the bid price they submitted. Sometimes contractors bid jobs & they forget big ticket items which may lead to a lower price. During the interview the engineer would ask “what did you forget” or “how can you do such & such at this price” or “where are you buying your materials b/c this price is unrealistic”. This is the best practice in the industry at this stage.

    On the other hand, the engineers may have left out a few items during design so their estimate is also questionable. It is also standard industry practice to list the number of calendar days required to perform the work. I see here it’s the other way around. On public works project it is best practice for the owner (government) to set the number of calendar days for the work to be completed that allows the contractor to generate a more realistic price associated with the project requirements.

    The firm who won the job is 12.4% below the EE at that’s between the stipulated range. The government MAY make a savings on this job if there are no change orders (changes in the contracted work) & there should be a clause in the general conditions (GC) for liquidated damages (monetary compensation paid to the owner for every day the job is delayed). I must say that any bid that is 10% less than the EE should be questioned. The owner should be asking “what are we paying for”.

    It is obvious from the spread of the numbers that the bid price is in the region of $640K. Unique Construction seems to know the job for what it is. I don’t know the firm but the numbers speak for themselves.

  9. Engineer
    September 5, 2014

    The names of those Dominica contractors confuse the hell out of me. 1) ‘George Trucking and Excavating Company’ won the contract to build wall? Yes I know there is excavation during the process, but there is also building of wall- is that company qualified?
    2. ACE Engineering-you guys do design and build?; Is the project a Design/Build? Apparently, it seems like it was already designed by engineers in the ministry, who had the price for completing a project of that magnitude to a high level of accuracy;; that in itself is simply amazing. The estimation gods must reside in Dominica. 3) Caribbean Concrete, sound like a concrete supplier to me, not the one that would be actually constructing the wall.

    I am not an engineer practicing in Dominica, but I will just briefly share some light on the process I am familiar in the US. Firstly, government present their project concept and specifications to typically private engineering firm who work with architect to come up with plans,, structural and drainage, etc etc design, and engineering firm develops cost estimate, and project specifications, including contractor’s minimum experience performing the type of work to be undertaken. Typically the price go to lowest bidder if they meet the other qualifications. Engineering firm often work with project owner to tender job, and then work with successful contractor, and review construction plan. Sometimes, contractors present good cost-saving ideas, and engineers should be mindful to look at all options, and don’t believe that whatever they (the engineer) present is the one and only way, and nothing else. Although, in some cases, there are little room for modification or alterations..
    Looking at this whole evaluation above, it just seems real fishy how they chose the contractor, among the others. Furthermore, in terms of time, 14 just seems little time. Control the water flow alone for storm events is a big project, and be mindful that placing stones in front that wall will likely constrict the water flow, and hence increase the water velocity, which in turn may increase scour (undermining ) of the foundation.

  10. Roseau River
    September 5, 2014

    See no evil hear no evil.
    How can we build a Nation this way?

  11. Da
    September 5, 2014

    Dominicans like I have told you all. If you want your country to be like Barbados or even St.lucia , you all have to stop voting for the handy-men!
    Put people in power who have the global mindset that would make Da look like a mordern country.
    This is just one under-the-table deal we are aware of that is out there in public , but I know there are many more.

  12. DaRealTrouble
    September 5, 2014

    8-O 8-O 8-O Labour ka Twaveye ? yes but is they alone

  13. dominican in tortola
    September 5, 2014

    The “gravy train” has took off ladies and gentlemen.

  14. Mamizoo
    September 5, 2014

    This is laughable and sad at the same time. Because the entire document presented is obviously horse manure no need to expound on the crap presented. However take note that George Nanthan did not get the Social Security Clearance. One would think that before assigning a government contract to a contractor that contractor need to be in good standing with his Social security commitments.

    So George Nanthan’s proposal is costlier and he did not meet the SS requirements. :-? :-?

    This Tony syndrome of lying and insulting the intelligence of our people is really deep rooted in our society and we must get rid of this cancer and dispose of those spreading this dangerous disease of lying , dishonesty, greed and avarice.

  15. Nady
    September 5, 2014

    thanks God only a few read DNO! Cus am not seeing how all these crap about Bidders tis and bidders tht can send my kids to school on Monday. Stop the politicing and give sholarships to children in need. I havent heard any of those greedy bidders sponsoring not one child. Again Election is in the air, so alot of talk is expected but what i find strange is that ACE never wrote or complained when he got to do government job which other persons bid for as well and didnt get it neither hve i seen any other bidders who were deny wrote paid articles. My My My God why are we hurting Dominica with such our greedy acts.

    • really
      September 5, 2014

      People perish bcs of lack of knowledge. You now know so i think you may perish for lack of unerstanding.

  16. Red
    September 5, 2014

    Gee here goes, you see not because I have the biggest mouth that I am right. ACE certainly did not qualify, he did not fall within the accepted range set by the technical staff of the Ministry. Your bid was so low they were afraid that there may have been variations for you to complete the project. As I have been saying lowest cost is not always the best option, lowest cost can mean that you are unable to complete the project. Thank you Government Officials for providing the facts. As usual in Dominica all we do is talk talk with out facts. And the talkers always believe they are right.

    • Civil Engineer!
      September 5, 2014

      @Red: You think you make sense but let’s look. Nanton is $98,623.05 less than the estimate from ministry. What then makes you think that he will complete this wall? There are only two cases, it is either ministry estimate is TOO high or Nanton was accommodated. Too much corruption inn this country! let me hear your take!

    • ahwa we
      September 5, 2014

      Behind the school you went to school man. Did you say that the lowest bid mean that you are unable to complete the job?
      carry on

  17. Morihei Ueshiba
    September 5, 2014

    Skerrit becareful because the Ex-Virginia gov., & his wife found guilty of public corruption. Make sure u clean. :mrgreen:

  18. preachers kid
    September 5, 2014

    This is a slap in the face of PUBLIC WORKS. how can public works be denied of this bid. This government is exposing itself to the public eye. This is a waste

  19. preachers kid
    September 5, 2014

    Dominicans, wake up. this deal is a SLAP

  20. CaraW
    September 5, 2014

    Now, why does a government have to explain to the public why a contract was awarded unless they know something is wrong there? Is Mr Nanthan or any of his staff and Engineer?

  21. CarltonDAfanatik
    September 5, 2014

    As for tender price having to be:

    5% below base or 15 % over base.

    Is standard tendering.

    To eliminate the “win at any cost” brigade and those looking to rip-off the public purse.

    If Mr Le blanc does not know that, he is on the wrong game.

  22. CarltonDAfanatik
    September 5, 2014

    See everyone is still hug up on price.

    Price is only…………..ONE……….aspect of tendering.

    Winning on price, but losing on all other aspects of the tender……………..means no contract for you.

    Full stop.

  23. reall madman
    September 5, 2014

    some shall at all.or few sshall eat all. plain and simple. once u not sopporting these maniacs u shall not get anything! change must come !!call it nor!!

  24. Billy
    September 5, 2014

    This is too weird to be a coincidence. Mr Nanton’s bid was just .20% above the minimum that they would accept. This means that the other companies had approximately $1200 between his bid and what would be disqualified, something that could almost never be achieved without prior knowledge of the Government’s “engineer’s estimate”. As an outsider who is also an engineer, this just seems so wrong. Poor Ms. Tyson whose signature appears on this questionable record.

  25. IluvmyPm
    September 5, 2014

    We still voting Blackmore

  26. Zammy
    September 4, 2014

    Dis is just pure gutter Politics and pure hate and vindictiveness on the part of the government… Everything is upside down, back to front , left to right and as if people are now walking upside down and everybody is blind and cant see. Everybody is deaf just cant hear so the government is on an onslaught of blatant disrespect and total disregard for the people. They have reached the point of no return where by they think that the people can take any and wont say a thing. In a sense – Dominicans deserve what they get but its the governments duty to show respect to the people. iIts unbelievable to see that such nonsense regarding this project, what should have really been done first is now being done and Dominicans wont make some noise at all.
    Look how silly things are that whilst the government is playing politics with state funds, portsmouth hospital is like a ghost town and the ER is the worst one can find any where. Strange thing is, Portsmouth hospital is in the heart of labour power yet no regard for the poooooor people. Dominicans need to put some sense in their heads and just vote out this failed and lame government. No wonder folks ridiculed the Roseau Hospital by calling it Gentle Rest. Well Domincans need to put this government into a long sleep by voting them out forever. Worst Government In the world…….. Say no more…………

  27. September 4, 2014

    Every single thing in Dominica is about politics folks should be focus about development for our country once the project completed the right way thats what matters for the country.

  28. Affa
    September 4, 2014

    In other words they setup Public Works Corporation to fail then? It’s my party and I support them on many things but sore eyes can see right thru this one. Dem fellas lie, to big up a friend of the party. ,.. what document? Straight up lie.

  29. Peeping Tom
    September 4, 2014

    Transparency in action. Kudos to Minister Blackmore and his team.

  30. rasta for-i
    September 4, 2014

    So wat is being said is that we Dominicans are stupid…tendering process is not complicated ..we bid based on provided info plus site visit…. Unless someone was given an unfair advantage I think it was a set up and no amount of statements or documents could blind us…..two top engineering firms bid out of range….is bull …

  31. Sour Grapes
    September 4, 2014

    I find we taking this to make too much political mileage. The same rules that qualified Mr. Leblanc (ACE) on previous projects are the same ones that qualified Nanthan today. Is this the only project that will be tendered that ACE will not qualify for? I dont think so. The Government has had countless situations of Contractors underbidding and later having problems to complete the projects for unforeseen/unplanned costs, and that includes ACE as an example, hence the established cost interval. I suggest Dominicans look to the facts and stop all the speculation. btw, this report is not a public document, it is an internal document submitted to a supervisor and should not have been put out here subjected to public scrutiny and the name calling. Although these same unregistered engineers signed for projects under a certain value that ACE qualified for on other occasions. I suggest Mr. Leblanc urge the government to have the engineers registered, that would be better worth his time.

  32. Kubuli Kountry
    September 4, 2014

    So why was George Nanthan considered if he didn’t present his Social Security Clearance Certificate?

    Ace Engineering and Caribbean Concrete Ltd were the only companies to bring all the necessary paperwork.

    So does that mean George Nanthan doesn’t pay Social Security for his workers or what??

  33. Popsicle
    September 4, 2014

    Leblanc (Ace Engineering) has been bitter against the Government for some time now. Let’s be frank, the Government would never choose Ace over Nanton and regardless of which Government is in power, the same trend of thought would have occured. Politics

  34. me
    September 4, 2014

    I have no doubt that if George bid was either higher or lower, they would still find a reason to accommodate him.
    Don’t try to fool us. We may look stupid but we are not

  35. Anthony E. Le Blanc
    September 4, 2014

    Wow.!! Very interesting!! I will provide the public with the response that this deserves.

    DNO, hope you do not charge me for this one … I see that you did not charge the Ministry of Public works and Public Utilities even if they still have 14.8% of the Engineer’s estimate from which it could be paid!!! :lol:

    But of cause, in the public interest, I will pay to inform them. :)

    Oh, and since Mrs Tyson legally, subject to the Engineering Professions Act of 2002, can not sign a report that is meant for the public since she is not a Registered Engineer (and therefore can not sign as Engineer legally), I am waiting for a supervising engineer or the head of the Technical Services Division to endorse the report.

    But endorsed or not, I will respond … but in a few days as the weekend are not for those things … family and the Lord’s day takes precedence.

    • Channel 1
      September 4, 2014

      @Anthony E. Le Blanc – We eagerly await your response to this. Something just ain’t right ………somewhere.

    • Peeping Tom
      September 4, 2014

      Oh Tony, you just do not know how to avoid a bait, huh? Always shooting yourself in the foot then crying foul when gangrene starts setting in the bobo.

    • joe
      September 5, 2014

      Anthony in your response please inform us on the tendering process as well, tell us all about the Dossier and how you came up with your cost and why you believe that having the lowest bid would automatically give you the contract.

      Oh also inform us on the number of contracts you won throughout the OECS as well!!

      My advise to you is stay away from POLITICS you suppose to be a PROFESSIONAL and ought to know better!!!!

      In my opinion you are attempting to gain political points but i can tell you even if the UWP wins the election you will still suffer the same fate…. as you know nowhere in the world is someone oblige to accept the lowest tender so re-visit section 57 again it can never imply that the lowest tender wins automatically as there are a number of factors that must be considered in awarding contracts. The OECS is one country now so go register your company and bid for projects… that’s my final advise to you, and don’t worry it is at no cost so you can pay DNO that’s how they make their money!!!

      • ahwa we
        September 5, 2014

        Is that a threat.

  36. REAL!!!!!!!
    September 4, 2014

    It seem they are moving the goal post in this tendering process to guarantee a certain outcome.

    If the folks tendering from the beginning were not given the requirement of the 5% above and -15% under cost at a condition to win the bid. then it should not be introduce at the end to decide who get the job.

    Its almost like the deck of cards is stack for only certain players to win.

    • Sour Grapes
      September 4, 2014

      Even if you tell them that before, how will they know what the target is? The point is to see who falls within that bracket by their independent estimates

    • looking
      September 5, 2014

      Exactly! I would not be surprised that information was passed on to make the cost of the bid within the range stipulated also. It’s very interesting scenario.

  37. Civil Engineer!
    September 4, 2014

    For some reason I seem not to understand the 5% higher and the 15% minimum. Based on my calculation the Ministry of Public Works is actually saying that the 15% lower is approximately $98,623.05 less. This mean that if someone had tendered $558,863.95 there is the possibility of providing or giving the job to that contractor even if he is less than the estimate from the Ministry of Public Works. This may mean that the project might not be completed because the contractor bid is less. Lets look at Nanton: His tender was less by $97,310.5 and also his completion date by one week. Now how on Gods earth that an estimate which less by $97,310.05 can guarantee me that this project will complete? Based on Ministry analysis the best contractor seem to be Caribbean concrete. Also it is very interesting that those who are very close to this administration is within the price range! $658,961,$646,610 and $560,176.5.
    It is also interesting to note that they use the minimum of 15%. why not 10%? Personally this minimum was used to facilitate Mr. Nanton tender.
    Ministry 15% minimum works out to $558,863.95 and compare to Nanton $560,176.50. Wow this is accommodation. I will never understand that if Ministry estimate is higher than Nanton by $90,000 dollars why then would he still be awarded the contract? I can understand a 5% minimum and a 5% maximum which works out to $32,000 dollars above or below the estimated value but not $90,000 less. I smell a RAT.
    Finally how could the ministry place the estimate for the wall in the hands of a JUNIOR ENGINEER instead of their Senior Quantity Surveyor?
    Ministry of Public Works please speak the truth because it shall set you FREE.

    • Tri-State Beauty
      September 5, 2014

      They still believe all of us when to school under a tamarind tree on Sundays! This process has been pulled in every direction to accommodate Nanton and by them publishing the figures makes it even more glaring, but truth has a way to rising to the top even in the face of deceit.

    • joe
      September 5, 2014

      Civil Engineer its not the Ministry of Public Works it is the Procurement Act and it is based on best practice!!!!!!

      Why are you insisting on belittling the Engineers who were present and made the recommendations?? Are you saying they will remain Junior Engineers for as long as they live?? why do you act as if people do not progress?? Well for your info these Engineers have the capacity to deliver like any senior as they have acted as Senior Engineers on numerous occasions so get off your HIGH CIVIL ENGINEER HORSE!!!!!!! Then you people say the youth have nothing good to offer!!!!! SMDFH Am Pissed!!!!!

    • Family guy
      September 5, 2014

      To Civil Engineer.
      you started your comment by saying “For some reason I seem not to understand the 5% higher and the 15% minimum” and i think that is the smartest thing you said in that entire piece of nonsense you wrote. i seriously doubt that you are a civil engineer but if you really are i suspect you did not pay much attention in school.

      • Civil Engineer!
        September 5, 2014

        @Joe & Family Guy: Are you saying to me that a project estimated from ministry costing 657k can now be constructed at a price of $557K? Well boss it is people like you who seem not to understand the true gift called” Common Sense.” Just for your knowledge and learning Quantity Surveyors are the ones delegated to prepare estimates and not Engineers. I too would prefer that you put off your ignorance and start learning!!!!!!!!

    • Family guy
      September 6, 2014

      Mr. Engineer ( i feel weird even calling you that) i know for a fact that it was a QS who prepared the estimates for this project for i have worked with him before. once again you have proven your stupidity and lack of understanding of how the 5% more and 15% works. please i beg you, stop posting crap on DNO you are making other engineers look bad. please i beg

  38. Itassi Too
    September 4, 2014

    Let me sing Gramax song instead of listening to this faded crap of Skerrit and the DLP. Mi Daba woy, woy, woy, daba…

    Folks, according to their published nonsense THEY INVITED 8 contractors to tender and THEY had a budget of $657, 478.00. Their contracted stipulated time for completion was 14 weeks, and based on a cost analysis it was given to George Nanthan. Hogwash! What the document does not tell us is 1. George may have had all that information before he submitted his tender 2.Mano and Skerro are buddies and Skerro had all that information 3.Both Skero and Mano have George cell and George has both of their numbers. So yes, they told us why it was given to George but they failed to tell us what information that was passed unto George. The tenders of others was based on experience whereas George’ was based on information passed on to him

    • Anonymous
      September 4, 2014

      What was the deadline for submission of these bids?

    • JoJo
      September 5, 2014

      Facts do not lie, the pals have been caught with their pants down.

    • joe
      September 5, 2014

      Itassi Too, have you ever heard of a tender ‘Dossier??’ All invited tenderer were privy to the same info my friend there were no secret, you can ask Anthony if you think i lying ask ACE he will confirm.

      The problem with ACE is that they deliberately under cost the project because they relied on their interpretation of section 57 of the Act, where they thought the lowest tender would have automatically won the bid…….. This backfired and therefore he is upset knowing he erred and has no leg to stand on he decided to make political mileage he know that is his cheapest shot not the Courts.

      Anyway it is a sad day for Dominica when our so called Professionals are infested with political venom!!!!!!

      I wonder if he had bid for a project in Antigua and lost it for the same purpose if he would have gone all out and say is corruption?? Food for thought!!

  39. Cops @Robbers
    September 4, 2014

    Well well well corruption is really a way of life these days. LAY BORE ka voleur to pah to.

  40. joe
    September 4, 2014

    Boy some of you bloggers are just plain FOOLISH i mean What!!!!!!

    Although the info is published these eddiots still asking foolish questions….wow!!!!! What a SHAME!!!! George got the contract legally and fairly and most of all INDEPENDENTLY the records are published go through it!!!!!!!!

    • whoistoblame
      September 4, 2014

      Is that how you do business?You are more foolish than the most limited business man

      • joe
        September 5, 2014

        More Foolish Comment!!!!!! JAH!!!! You people need serious help!!!

        Tell me whoisittoblame and Tri-state beauty how you all answered my comment?

    • Tri-State Beauty
      September 5, 2014

      No Joe you are being ignorant, and you have entered a discussion on figures and the process of tendering light years beyond you scope!!!! Might I suggest in the future you sit back and allow those who are qualified to speak on such matters to do so. People like you since you see numbers you get excited, but ask you to interpret them at the most basic level is maypuis. The figures simply do not reflect what the Ministry was trying to clear up. The process was done blatantly to favour Mr Nanton.

      • Civil Engineer!
        September 5, 2014

        @Tri-State Beauty: I fully agree with you and could not have said it better. What an Accommodation!!

  41. September 4, 2014

    How can Dominica grow if corruption exist.the rich getting richer at the expense of the poor.God is not sleeping and according to your works you will get your pay.we leave it in Gods hands.

  42. Oh No
    September 4, 2014

    It’s a disgrace to forward this explanation to the public. This is manipulated convenience to accommodate one group or entity. In this case it’s having the Necessary Political Connection (NPC). this is backward thinking and an unwise approach amounting to insult of one’s intelligence.

  43. Pedro
    September 4, 2014

    Government has dug a deeper hole for themselves now.

  44. christian
    September 4, 2014

    Oh please, this, like all other projects will never get done. Dominicans are lazy, IF it get done the Chinese will do it.
    ChinaNica….a 4th world country.

  45. September 4, 2014

    My attempt here is to bring clarity as a Technical person and hope this is a moment for us to learn.
    1) Is there an establish procedure whereby, bidders have literature informing them of the (5% max -15% min.) of the budgeted amount set by the Technical Service prior to being issued the tender document?
    2) Does competency to undertake the work based on a company history of work which includes for example Retaining wall, Heavy Civil Works etc come into play during the award?
    3) What about the company having an Engineer on staff as part of the prequalification to bid on such infrastructure work? If not why not, since it will increase the confidence level of citizens of the project outcome.
    4) Would it help if Nantan’s company have an Civil Engineer on staff?
    5) Is there any consideration of past work quality for companies considered?

    I encourage comments as these projects are major, and we need to look for a solution that is not partisan to develop our country. In the end we all loose if we do not use the best to get the best therefore, this is not a time to experiment with our infrastructure as it will become a recurring expense to shore up with corrective measures. Remember, we live in a hurricane prone country with high rainfall and by extension water with unknown force.

  46. zagayan
    September 4, 2014

    One word for that explanation, utter rubbish!

  47. JoJo
    September 4, 2014

    Things will speak for themselves when we see an over-run both on budget and completion time, being sanctioned in the supplementary expenditure presented to the House. Boy, all that is coco makak by amateurs.

  48. icepop
    September 4, 2014

    Nicky stay away from such controversy you are but a small fraid – wonder who got you to sign that letter; reminds me of the news reporter who was asked to read something she did prepare and believe in;- but given the background and the ministry protocols one would have thought the CTO or PS or a senior engineer representing and signing for the CTO or PS of the Ministry would be the one to sign . i DID NOT ANTICIPATE THAT a junior engineer/ who is not even a civil engineer would be the one to sign of on such tenders – But God Bless Dominica.

    • IceLoli
      September 4, 2014

      The problem in Dominica is that too many ppl speculating on issues, that only in their own mind is the truth..An Engineer in the Ministry, in this instance is required to evaluate the tenders based on existing criteria, then recommendations for award of tender is submitted to their supervisor, the decision is made at a higher level. Engineers do not decide who projects are awarded too. Rules are applied across the Board.

  49. eh beh weh
    September 4, 2014

    what hurts about this more is George has never finish a project given to him by Government. soon you shall see him leaving this project undone and moving to another, while there are persons waiting to get a job. this is so not right. I can list so many projects that he has not completed but paid in full. 800,000 for the pond case one involving the accident re Dominica football coach and others. that is so not fair. it is to obvious what’s happening here. I don’t Condon such and never will.

  50. Villager
    September 4, 2014

    The insiders knew the cost so they were advised to bid accordingly. Hence, this flimsy excuse has surfaced. Don t be fooled my people!

  51. Anthony Ismael
    September 4, 2014

    The Power of the Press is marvelous. Two other entities who were definitely more qualified were left out by a guy with a poor track record, who is a Labor Crony.
    Even a lay person understands the bidding and costing process for such a project. The explanation given by the Ministry of Communication and Works is pure and utter “Rubbish.”

  52. shaka zulu
    September 4, 2014

    OK. The 600k estimate from the tech services department is what it would cost gov to do job. The reasons for tendering bids is to have cheaper cost which is normal in private sector because private sector is always more efficient than government.
    The reason these companies were invited, I assum, is because they have an established track record. Has there ever been a problem with ACE on previous projects where they grossly underbided and had to request a change order? Does ACE have a record of not completing projects on time? Does ACE have a lot of in house capabilities so they do not have to incurred rental costs or large subs? Does ace have smaller overhead to maintain? These are all important questions to factor. If there is a bad track record then they should not be invited in the first place
    The government putting a 5% max to 15% min is crap. What they need to do is establish stipulations and fines if they go beyond time and budget based on scope, with certain exceptions (weather, gov change scope, or any unforseen change in conditions). This will deter price fixing.
    This document is a waste of time and state funds. I am happy we all get to see the Jurassic level in the way our government operates. I will say again our system of operations is the biggest waste I see of state funds. Unless the company with the lowest bid has a bad reputation or history I see no reason to deny there bid.

  53. IG
    September 4, 2014

    Did Mr. George receive assistance or some form of secrete information in the preparation of his so that would put him ahead of the other tenders?
    Is it a coincidence that Mr. George knowing who he is received the recommendation his tender?
    Why was there a first round of tenders dated 11th September 2013 and why did the government cancel the tender process without awarding a contract for the works?

  54. real possie
    September 4, 2014

    Now what is wrong here? this not a paid advertorial they clearly stated their tendering process, so now if Ace thinks they were denied a fair bidding process take the matter to court don’t pay to bring your side out pay to have it heard in court.

    • ahwa we
      September 5, 2014

      who owns the court?

  55. Doc. Love
    September 4, 2014

    The report on DNO captioned, ” Document explains awarding of Contract for Roseau Promenade, ” appears to have been submitted to DNO by the Ministry of Public Works. If so, is Public Works supporting the decision to award the contract to the brother of Skeritt’s advisor? Further, it is my understanding, the present Chairman or acting Chairman of Public Works, was a one time PRO of the DLP and is presently a strong supporter of the Skeritt led Administration. If my question and statement are answered in the affirmative, therefore, wouldn’t that be considered a conflict of interest?

  56. Peter J
    September 4, 2014

    This is Bull Crap! Who is the Quantity Surveyor who prepared the Bills of Quantities and Cost Estimates for the project?
    Those who are involved in the preparation of cost estimates know what reasonable costing is, tell the Ministry to publish the cost estimates prepared by the technical division for scrutiny.
    Who are these guys trying to fool?
    The technicians in the Ministry are a set of young people with absolutely no experience in the practicalities of construction, so how can their estimates be considered the gospel? The Government should be glad to know that both ACE and Public Works were allowing them to save about a $100K and now they come up with this crap?
    Which rules of procurement are they using? surely not the World Bank, nor the EU, or CDB, it can only be Skerrit and Blackmore DLP rules of procurement.
    What is it? The bid price cannot be more than 5% or less than 15% of the Government estimates? Oh my God, these guys believe Dominicans are fools and they can insult our intelligence.
    Stop the project, reopen the tender and allow transparency and fair play to prevail.
    This is evil and downright insultive to put out that release.

    • Anonymous
      September 4, 2014

      It has been published! Maybe you should take some time and read it.

    • Anonymous
      September 4, 2014

      Here’s part of the publication. You can check the rest out for yourself.

      “Document explains awarding of contract for Roseau River Promenade. September 4, 2014

      ACE Engineering Ltd.
      The tenderer’s contract estimate for the project is four hundred and fifty-two thousand one hundred and ninety- two dollars and twelve cents ($452,192.12). This reflects a 30.7% ($200,285.88) less than the Engineer’s estimate which is not within the limits (5% maximum and 15% minimum) of the Technical Services Division budget estimate.
      The tenderer’s contract period for completion of the project is thirteen Weeks which falls within the stipulated time estimated by the engineer.”

  57. AA
    September 4, 2014

    Let me understand the stupidity in the process of evaluation here. You are saying that if someone is able to more efficiently complete the task than what a government agency is saying that should be the standard then they should not be given the job???? I mean seriousely??? What piece of gabage is this, no wonder things are so upside down and there is so much waste in the government system.

    Everyone know that the government agencies are inefficient hoe dear you all come with such BS to justify the bobol

  58. WHY
    September 4, 2014

    And the point being check them out again who do you all think you fooling. George started William road in pondcasse disaster ,Grand fond road clearing disaster alas papa Bondieux why us why us >Not that he is incompetent it shows that (lol check his work you will see) Grand fond playing field a disaster boy George after fourteen yrs how much profits did you amass how long not long

    • eh beh weh
      September 4, 2014

      I support you 100 percent. .he has never finish a project, check them out and you shall see. that ain’t right at all. All shall eat…

  59. Anonymous
    September 4, 2014

    I sort of understand the logic behind that process. I do not always buy on the basis of the price alone. I buy based on the value I get for the price I pay and sometimes paying a higher price represents a better value.

    How many times have you paid less for an item and then turn around and throw it away after a few uses. That is not normally good value for money, particularly when you could have paid a little more and get much better quality.

    However, if I am getting a product that meets my needs, I will not knowingly pay more for another like product.

    The question is: Would ACE’s work meet or exceed the requirement of the government at a lower price? If so, I question the logic behind the process they use to select the winning bid.

    Sometimes, government bureaucrats seem to park their common sense aside and do what “the procedures” say.

  60. Fed Up #1
    September 4, 2014

    Give me a break. Obviously, the public works technicians will continue to inflate the estimates and have these political cronies bid within the established limits for the public records. It is a club being run with taxpayers money and suddenly all the political cronies have opened up new businesses in order to benefit from these contracts. All club members now own construction firms, heavy equipment firms, cleaning companies, etc to aid and abet their corrupt masters. What is taking place now is scandalous!

  61. falcon carier
    September 4, 2014

    humm..nicole pls show us the errors in arithmetic calculations that was seen in ACE tender…if we being transparent lets go all the way with this…..

  62. Anonymous
    September 4, 2014

    So it actually went to the lowest bidder since Ace and Public works were disqualified.

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