Prime Minister Announces Cost Savings on New Coast Guard Vessel
Prime Minister Gaston Browne has announced significant cost savings in the procurement of a new hull for a Coast Guard vessel, following negotiations that reduced the purchase price and added custom features to enhance the boat’s durability.
In a statement, the Prime Minister revealed that the government successfully lowered the cost of the hull to EC$1.9 million.
The reduction was achieved by opting to wait a few additional weeks before finalizing the purchase, allowing the government to negotiate a better deal. Originally, EC$2 million had been paid based on the retail price of a readily available vessel.
“The wait has paid off,” Prime Minister Browne said.
“By delaying the purchase, we secured a significant discount, and the vessel will also feature a bespoke paint job and additional reinforcements, making it more robust for its duties.”
The Prime Minister also emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability in government transactions.
He confirmed that the factory has agreed to reimburse the government EC$100,000, reflecting the difference between the initial payment and the final negotiated price.
“This is a clear example of our commitment to managing public funds responsibly,” Browne added.
“We ensured full transparency throughout the process and will continue to do so in all future transactions.”
The new hull, with its enhanced features, is expected to improve the operational capabilities of the Antigua and Barbuda Coast Guard, contributing to better maritime security and emergency response efforts in the region.
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I love how he spoke about that fraud Shuggy and the callers that shared their opinions about him, it was so hilarious! 😂
This political ventriloquism and another illustration that Gaston Browne thinks that The ESQs The MDs and the various types of PHDs are nothing but a timid bunch with no spin; who would never challenge him individually or collectively unless their individual incomes are affected.
This is no different than walking into a showroom to purchase a vehicle, and balk at the sticker price. Recognizing you can get the vehicle at a better price; the purchaser leaves return with your argument and case for a better price and some desirable upgrades. It happens every day. The fact that there is a refund coming says that the Government fell for the sticker price bait. Nothing to gloat about.
But the learned ones allow Gaston to get away with this nonsense with him saying “It’s a clear example of our commitment to managing public funds” BS
How about all the other overpayments? This does not mitigate the common practice of bloated budgets and underhanded deals.
@Yo Palem Male:
What exactly is your point? Do you simply criticize the PM out of hatred? What fires up you guys that every time he says boo, you say bah?
I’m trying to comprehend the logic behind the vitriolic responses all the time. Has he ever done anything that you like? Anything?
He comes to his radio every flipping week whilst he’s in country. He sits to report to the public, allowing callers to speak directly to him. He tries to offer appeasement in almost every situation.
Doesn’t that count for something?
I remember when the former PM, Hon. Baldwin Spencer was at the helm, even though I was not a supporter of the UPP, I didn’t find it necessary to address his every move or statement.
Why do you guys dislike the current PM so much?
After a while, your responses come across as being envious.
Shamefully so.
I will never make a crisis go to waste, I will monetize it for my enrichment scheme, the boys training school is standing, but I propose a $15 million dollars new site to be built, and all other issues that hit the country, my gang of administration will eat bread offer them, in other words me a charge the tax payers.