Jackson wants audit of CDF projects

Erica Virtue, Senior Gleaner Writer

Member of Parliament (MP) Fitz Jackson has asked Contractor General Greg Christie to conduct a special audit of two projects in his St Catherine South constituency, which were approved under the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) programme, but which have resulted in time and cost overruns.

The two projects, one, to construct a staffroom at the Braeton Primary and Junior High School, and the second, to refurbish a community centre at Reid's Pen in the constituency, have lagged behind schedule since the 2008-2009 financial year.

Jackson told The Gleaner yesterday that about two months ago, he sought the assistance of Contractor General Greg Christie in auditing the two projects as his constituents were lamenting the long road to completion, and in some instances, blaming him.

"The contractor general acknowledged receipt of my letter the same day he received my letter. He assured me that a team would be assigned to it, and that it would be done. But recently, I emailed him asking for an update, and his office said it is being done, but they were not in a position to give a preliminary report," Jackson said.

The initial sum approved for the construction of the staffroom was $3.7 million in 2008-2009, but $700,000 more was sought in the 2010-2011 financial year for its completion. Jackson said the staffroom costs exceeded initial estimates, resulting in the additional funds being sought in the financial year.

Jackson's fury with the council grew as work lagged on the refurbishment of the community centre in Reid's Pen, in the constituency, which started in 2008 at a cost of $5.04 million, and saw an additional $2.04 million approved last year.

erica.virtue@gleanerjm.com