Computer Tender Protects Students, Taxpayers

TRANSPORTATION/PUBLIC WORKS--Computer Tender Protects Students, Taxpayers

The province has reissued a tender for computers for a new Halifax high school to make sure students get the right equipment and taxpayers get the best value for their investment.

"This happens from time to time," said Ron Russell, Minister of Transportation and Public Works. "The original bids for computers at the Halifax North Mainland Common School either did not meet the technical standards required by the Department of Education, or were not acceptable for a number of other reasons. For example, when bidders offer substitutions without the required documentation, it's our policy to reject the bid."

"It's also important to note that just because a firm has the lowest bid, whether it's a local company or not, doesn't guarantee a contract award. There are many technical requirements that must also be met to guarantee that we get the right equipment at the right price."

The bids submitted in the first round of the tender were opened publicly, which is the policy for all Nova Scotia government tenders. Mr. Russell says an open and transparent procurement policy demands that bids be opened publicly.

"However, in no way did the public release of all bids compromise any of the firms who wanted to bid the second time around," he added.

The computer tender was reissued Oct. 20 and closes on Oct. 28. Bids received by that date will also be opened publicly.

Eighty per cent of the $500 million in goods and services purchased by the Nova Scotia government each year are bought from Nova Scotia firms.

"This government is committed to offering every opportunity to Nova Scotia suppliers who are capable of competing and providing value to Nova Scotia taxpayers," said Mr. Russell.

The Procurement Branch has published its General Instructions to Bidders and other guides and policies at www.gov.ns.ca/finance/tour/policy/gen-inst.htm . The instructions cover a wide range of procurements, including goods, construction and personal and professional services.