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Public Accounts Committee launches review into procurement by the Government

The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has launched a review into the Government of Jersey's procurement practices. This review will examine how the Government acquires goods, services, and works from external suppliers, aiming to evaluate the overall effectiveness of these processes.

The review will seek to address the following key issues:

1. Assess the effectiveness and efficiency of the Government of Jersey's procurement processes, including:

   • Major and strategic projects (e.g., capital projects)
   • Supply systems (SAP, HRG, etc.)
   • Use and reporting of consultants and contingency labour
   • Minor projects
   • Procurement exemptions
   • CPMO processes and frameworks

2. Gather feedback from suppliers, businesses, and unions on the procurement processes' effectiveness, ease of use, best practices, and areas for improvement.

3. Request and review information on the Government of Jersey's procurement strategies, frameworks, and policies, including briefings from officials and drafting briefing papers.

4. Identify and outline the governance structures monitoring procurement and receive briefings from officials on these processes.

5. Assess whether the procurement processes deliver value for money.

6. Follow up with the Interim Chief Executive and Chief Officers on the progress of implementing C&AG recommendations related to procurement, noting best practices and areas for improvement.

Deputy Inna Gardiner, Chair of the Panel, stated, 'We are eager to begin our important work assessing the Government of Jersey's procurement processes. By gathering feedback from suppliers, businesses, and unions, and reviewing procurement strategies and policies, we aim to ensure value for money, effective governance and that the processes are in line within organisational values.'

The Committee will hold public hearings with key stakeholders, including the Interim Chief Executive, Chief Officers, suppliers, businesses, and unions. Details and links to these hearings will be shared closer to the time.

The Committee will present a comprehensive report with findings and recommendations on the Government of Jersey's procurement processes to the States Assembly and the public in 2025.

Find out more information about the review here.