Guarantees sought after new company wins contract for TT course

Guarantees were sought in the House of Keys after the TT course contract was awarded to a new company for the first time in 35 years.

Economic Development Minister John Shimmin confirmed that following a competitive tendering exercise, the contract had been awarded to island-based Marlow Construction.

He explained the contract was awarded following an evaluation by his Department and Treasury, taking into account ‘value for money and the quality of the tender submissions’.

Mr Shimmin said: ‘The course contractor performs a critical role in the physical preparations for both the TT and MGP races and it was important to select a company that could demonstrate ability to devote appropriate resources to the work and deliver the course requirements within the specified timescale.’

But Howard Quayle (Middle) questioned how much the process has saved the taxpayer and whether the company awarded the contract had the ‘necessary experience required for running such an important role as the TT and Manx Grand Prix’.

‘Is he confident that preparations for TT and Grand Prix 2012 are on schedule and there will be no disruption or reduction in service levels as a result of this new contract being awarded?’

The Minister replied that in common with most other contracts, this contract contains a clause preventing disclosure of details, unless both parties gave permission for that information to be divulged - and it had not been possible to get Mr Marlow’s permission as he was off-island.

But he insisted: ‘This was never an exercise to save money.’

He explained that the new contract evolved because Kissack Bros Ltd who he said had been doing an ‘outstanding job’ for the past 35 years, had not actually had a formal contract. When it was put out to tender Kissack Bros chose not submit a tender.

Mr Shimmin admitted: ‘It is unlikely there will be any saving. Indeed, it may well be initially more expensive to the taxpayer whilst the new company gears up for the same work as has been done in the past.’

He added: ‘Certainly they will not have experience in this area. However, my department have been satisfied they do have the experience to take responsibility for the necessary work.’

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