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February 24, 1998
(Works, Services and Transportation)
Consultation on Public Tender Act
Works, Services and Transportation Minister Lloyd
Matthews today announced a comprehensive review of the Public
Tender Act, the legislation governing the acquisition of goods,
services and construction by government. The review process,
which will examine ways to improve and strengthen legislation,
will include extensive consultation with industry groups in the
province.
"The intent of this review is to ensure that
we have legislation in place which emphasizes accountability of
public funds, within the context of a changing business
environment," said Mr. Matthews. "Legislation must
encourage competitive bidding and ensure the best value for the
public. It should also encourage innovation, growth and provide a
fair opportunity for local business in the province."
To assist with the consultative process, a
background paper highlighting many of the key issues and concerns
is available to any interested group or organization wishing to
make a submission to government. "Essentially, we have
drafted a background paper which addresses such things as best
value for government expenditures, while encouraging innovation
and economic development. While we outline issues of concern, we
do not make recommendations or offer solutions in the background
paper," added Mr. Matthews. "We are seeking input from
the private sector as well as the public sector on how our
legislation can be strengthened."
For example, evaluation criteria is one of the
issues government is reviewing. Current legislation stipulates
that contracts be awarded to the lowest bidder yet other factors
such as quality, service delivery, life cycle costs, and
experience, are not considered in the evaluation. "We are
asking industry groups and the public to tell us if and when
other factors should come into play in awarding contracts,"
said the minister.
The deadline for submissions is March 23, 1998.
Government will take all views and concerns into consideration.
"At the end of this process, we hope to have enough input
from local industry to guide us in developing legislation that
ensures the best possible value for public funds," said the
minister.
Contact: Jill Sooley (709) 729-3015.
Consultation Paper on Public Tender Act
Schedule for Consultation Sessions on
the Public Tender Act
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