Local contractors won't be left out of SPARK programme - Morgan
Published:Thursday | June 6, 2024 | 11:56 AM
The Government is seeking to assure it has no intention of excluding local contractors from the Shared Prosperity Through Accelerated Improvement (SPARK) Programme.
The Incorporated Masterbuilders Association of Jamaica (IMAJ) had expressed concern that majority of local contractors would be unable to meet the requirements to participate in the programme.
Minister without portfolio in the Ministry of Economic Growth and Job Creation, Robert Morgan, says an initial meeting was held on Tuesday with the IMAJ to discuss the issues.
He says during the meeting, members of the IMAJ outlined their proposals and concerns about how to improve the programme and increase local participation.
Morgan says the Government and the IMAJ agreed to engage in consultations on the SPARK Programme going forward, and the IMAJ pledged to formally share its recommendations on various processes, including implementation.
“The Government has no intention of excluding local contractors from the SPARK or any other programmes. The Government rather looks forward to the inclusion of local contractors through active collaboration," Morgan states.
He says Tuesday's meeting is the first of many.
The SPARK Programme seeks to rehabilitate over 2,000 of the island's roadways over two years.
Follow The Gleaner on X and Instagram @JamaicaGleaner and on Facebook @GleanerJamaica. Send us a message on WhatsApp at 1-876-499-0169 or email us at onlinefeedback@gleanerjm.com or editors@gleanerjm.com.