The Public Accounts Committee has recommended that the Department of Fisheries should investigate how certain contracts in relation to fiberglass punts were awarded by the Major Tenders Board.
After analyzing the 2006 Economic Services Sector Auditor General's report, the committee raised the issue of the awarding of a contract by the Major Tenders Board to a company that was not recommended to the department.
The audit has cited that a complaint had been received regarding the approval by the Major Tenders Board of 6 x 19 footer standard fiberglass punts to be supplied by Milestone Group Company.
The committee said the complaint that was received alleged that the boat given to the fisherman was an old one and had been painted over to look new.
The Accounts Committee said furthermore, the department's recommendation to give the tender to Safeway Marine, Pacific Fiberglass or Tradewinds Mariners had been ignored by the Major Tenders Board which gave the contract to Milestone Group Company which was not even a fiber glass boat builder.
The committee stressed that the selection process reflected the lack of credibility of the Major Tenders Board and the department should investigate how the tender was awarded to the company.
It said the department should also inform the Controller of Government Supplies of the quality of fiberglass boats supplied by the company.
Public Accounts Committee member, Taufa Vakatale said there are many incidents that they have picked up in relation to the Major Tenders Board and appropriate action needs to be taken.
Vakatale said a full detailed report on the work of the Major Tenders Board has also been submitted to the Prime Minister.
