Edghill orders probe into alleged Asphalt Plant racket

Minister of Public Works Juan Edghill has ordered an immediate investigation into an alleged racket involving the purchase of asphalt at a state-run entity.

Details of the alleged racket were first reported by the Kaieteur News on Tuesday and according to Minister Edghill, he is “very concerned and distressed” over the report since it implicates staff of the Public Works Ministry.

“I am very concerned and distressed…especially since there are allegations that may implicate staff of the Ministry of Public Works. As the Minister responsible for this sector, both the Ministry of Public Works and the Demerara Harbour Bridge under whose management the Asphalt Plan falls, I have ordered an investigation,” Minister Edghill said in a statement released by the Department of Public Information.

He urged members of the public, including contractors to come forward with any information they have that could “bring an end to this alleged racket and stop the haemorrhaging of the public purse.”

“We will not allow corruption in any form shape or fashion. The people must get value for their money and corrupt public officers or public officials must not be allowed to benefit.

“This is an allegation and we will get to the bottom of it,” Edghill said as he promised a “full and thorough investigation.”