New contractors in Region 5 to be given equal opportunities – REO

Contractors who are now coming on board are the ones likely to be providing services for the Administration

in the next 10 years. That is according to newly appointed Regional Executive Officer (REO) of Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice), Ovid Morrison.
He made the comments on Friday as he met with contractors in the Region to brief them on what was expected of them.
Morrison noted that the small contractors must be given a chance to grow. “They may not have the equipment to build a road, but they can repair a bridge or a building and if they save their money, they will be able to purchase equipment needed for larger contracts. Start-up contractors are an integral part of the system because they are the future and so, you are just as important as any of the other contractor,” Morrison said, while addressing the contractors at the Regional Boardroom at Fort Wellington on Friday.
However, he noted that any contractor with “corrupt behaviour” would be blacklisted. The REO said that since he arrived in the Region he has received allegations of discrimination. “I want to assure that this team here is going to be as transparent as possible with dealing with contractors. The Administration will adopt a no-nonsense approach on proven allegations of bribes being given for the awarding of contracts. Small contractors will get contracts when work is to be carried out in the Region. You may not have heavy-duty tools, but we will not leave you out. We will make sure that we give you employment in keeping with your capabilities,” he assured.
At the meeting, Morrison also assured that “start-up contractors” were free to visit the Regional Democratic Council at any time for assistance on how to start getting contracts from the Region. The REO is urging all contractors to provide a quality service to the Region, in their respective work areas.