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The work of the Office of the Contractor-General was enhanced
with the addition of the National Contracts Commission (NCC).
The Contractor-General, the Office of the Contractor-General and
the National Contracts Commission are independent Commissions of
Parliament established to ensure that the public sector
procurement process can withstand public scrutiny.
The Government’s objectives are the strengthening and auditing
of the procurement process. The thrust involves:
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The establishment
of a framework that allows for transparency and openness in
the government procurement process.
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Non-discrimination
in the award of government contracts.
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Ensuring impartial
and fair review for the resolution of complaints and appeals
associated with public sector procurement.
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Maximizing economy
and efficiency in the procurement process and thus, savings of
government funds.
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Promoting
fairness, integrity and public confidence in the procurement
process.
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Contributing to
sustainable development by seeking to minimize any negative
impact on the environment.
In pursuit of these
objectives, the Government of Jamaica aims to ensure that:
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Public sector
procurement policy applies to all Government Entities,
including Central Government Ministries, Agencies and
Departments, Local Government Authorities, Statutory Bodies,
Executive Agencies, Public Enterprises and any entity in which
the Government of Jamaica owns a majority share, or otherwise
exercises control over the operations of the entity, including
an entity which acts on behalf of the Government.
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Value for money
must be a primary factor in the procurement process.
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With due regard to
international and/or regional obligations, public sector
procurement must as far as practicable provide an opportunity
for capable domestic contractors to participate in the
provision of goods, services and works on a sustainable and
efficient basis as an integral part of the process of
fostering national development.
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Recognizing the
need for flexibility in the application of procurement
modalities, although competitive tender is the primary mode,
the use of limited tender and direct contracting through
negotiation or sole-source processes, may be permitted in
certain circumstances.
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