(January 17, 2022) – Barry Petten, PC Official Opposition Shadow Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure and MHA for Conception Bay South, raised new concerns today about the Government decision to push ahead with what’s become a sole source bid to replace Her Majesty’s Penitentiary (HMP).

Petten had raised concerns last month when news broke that two other bidders had dropped out of the process, citing favouritism with recent government projects all awarded to one company. At the time, Petten called for a new tender process to ensure a fair, transparent process and protection of the taxpayer.

Now, Petten says he understands a commitment to consultation with correctional workers has not been met by the Liberal government.

“Over two years ago, the Liberal Government made a written commitment to include correctional staff in the planning process of the new facility. Having front line workers involved in the early stages of the process must be a priority,” said Petten.

“However, that was April of 2019 and nothing has happened. This is a unique facility and frontline workers, including correctional staff, must be engaged from the beginning to ensure every aspect of this facility is thoroughly considered.”

Petten worries this is another poorly designed process like the current fiasco in Central NL with new nursing homes constructed with thousands of defects, resulting in long delays and costs to the taxpayers.

“I am at a loss that Government would turn their backs on the valuable input and advice of front line staff. However, this is becoming a familiar pattern with the Furey government,” said Petten.

“Unfortunately, I fear we may end up with a new facility plagued with deficiencies and issues that could have been avoided.”

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Contacts:

David Maher

Director of Strategic Communications

(cell) 709-725-0984

DavidMaher@gov.nl.ca