PAC Launches Investigation into the Outsourcing of Public Cleaning Service

The Parliamentary Committee responsible for examining the Government’s use of resources has launched an investigation into the outsourcing of Public Cleaning Services by the Government of Montserrat.

Chair of the Public Accounts Committee, the Honourable Easton Taylor Farrell says the purpose of the inquiry is to identify weaknesses in the outsourcing system as it relates to cleaning services and to make recommendations as to how problems can be rectified.

The inquest was launched on Wednesday.

Mr. Farrell, who is also the Leader of the Opposition said while this is the first public inquiry commissioned by the Public Accounts Committee, it is the PAC’s intention to conduct further public inquiries in the future as the need arises.

He stated that the committee wishes to see an open and transparent Government which is accountable to the legislature and to the people of Montserrat.

For this reason, he says evidence sessions for this inquiry will be opened to the public and a seated public gallery will be available for members of the public to attend the meeting.

A public evidence session has been arranged for next Wednesday April 18th at the Credit Union Hall.

The other members of the PAC are The Honourable Parliamentary Secretary responsible for Youth, Culture and Sports Gregory Willock and Member of the Parliamentary Opposition Dr. Samuel Joseph.

The launch of the first inquiry by the Public Accounts Committee coincides with the attachment of the clerk of the Northern Ireland Assembly Jim McManus.

Mr. Taylor-Farrell has welcomed the attachment, describing it as an important partnership in helping to strengthen the capacity of the committee in carrying out its functions effectively.

Mr. McManus says it has been working with the committee to improve its visibility and questioning techniques.

The Clerk of the Northern Ireland Assembly also spoke of the support he has provided to the clerk of the Montserrat Legislative Assembly.

Clerk of the Northern Ireland Assembly Jim McManus