March 31, 1998
(Works, Services and Transportation)

The following statement was issued today by Lloyd Matthews, Minister of Works, Services and Transportation. It was also read in the House of Assembly:

I want to take this opportunity today to update Honourable Members on the status of the Public Tender Act consultation process. Last fall, I undertook a commitment to consult with industry groups regarding the way government procures goods, services and construction, with a view to strengthening our legislation, encouraging innovation, and providing a fair opportunity for local business and industry in our province. I am pleased to report today, that this review process is now complete.

I have attended a series of information sessions around the province; in Happy Valley-Goose Bay, Labrador City, St. John's, Gander and Corner Brook. The high level of interest in this review process is encouraging. Approximately 100 individuals representing a variety of organizations and interests ranging from construction, manufacturing, suppliers, municipalities and various government funded bodies attended these information sessions. In addition, department has received 24 written submissions and heard eight individual presentations. I want to thank all of these individuals and organizations for their interest and input into this review process.

Our challenge now is to incorporate all of the views and concerns expressed by these various groups and individuals and make sound legislative changes based on recommendations we've received. We have achieved consensus on some issues but clearly not on all issues. We have heard throughout the process that there is a need for change, but we've also heard a desire to keep the integrity and transparency of the Public Tender Act.

I remain committed to making legislative changes which will give the public the best value for their money. I am also committed to preserving the basic principles of the Public Tender Act; fairness, competition and transparency. I am pleased to report today that the process of making legislative changes is underway and I expect to introduce at least some the proposed changes in this sitting of the legislature.