Latest update April 18th, 2024 12:59 AM
Apr 05, 2021 Letters
Dear Editor,
I am compelled to provide input on the article: “Exxon contractor snubs local firm…” as written in KN 4th April. Yes, Exxon and its contractors should give local Guyanese merchants preference for goods and materials, but MUST they select the local merchants that don’t meet the quality and standards that these international companies by their own internal guidelines are expected to go by? The answer is No. Preference does not mean selection of certain Guyanese businesses is guaranteed, if those businesses don’t meet certain corporate criteria and guidelines. Emphasis is placed on the goods and materials to be provided, as some of these items need more scrutiny than others. The more reasons for contracts to be written properly.
Pricing is just one factor. The contractors can select another company if the price is higher, as long as the quality and standards are high. How many companies would select a supplier with no experience in a particular field?
That is rarely done. It’s the equivalent of an employer not selecting a job applicant with no experience. It happens all the time, and is a very valid argument for disqualification. “Networking” as Americans call it, with the employees at Exxon and their subcontractors in Guyana, and knowing who has clout is a path to getting noticed and selected-especially if the supplier is new to the field. I think this is necessary. Especially in an area that is very competitive, with scores of other established suppliers.
The likes of Exxon have guidelines and legal obligations that they have to adhere to, even with procurement; and especially with certain items – otherwise employees regardless of location can sue for the slightest issues, especially with PPE. PPE is a can of worms for certain companies, because of lawsuits.
That is why the main questions, which I have are:
(A) How was the expression of interest by the local Guyanese company submitted to SBM offshore?
(B) Did the Guyanese company indicate anywhere on the documents or email that the primary supplier was an established international company – W.W. Grainger?
It would be interesting for KN to follow up to see which company was selected, and what the difference was in the submitted documents (if any), or emails, bearing in mind; other factors could have also played a part in the selection process.
Yours truly,
Chi Kansi
JAGDEO ADDING MORE DANGER TO GUYANA AND THE REGION
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