The government department that provides guidance for project management and procurement activities is about to get some guidance itself, according to Vance Campbell, the Minister of the Cabinet.

Mr Campbell has told the House of Assembly it was to ensure that public procurement is conducted at a global standard, and, service delivery throughout government is improved.

The Office of Project Management and Procurement provides oversight and guidance to public authorities regarding project management and procurement activities.

This is to ensure that contracts are awarded to providers of goods, services and works based on the principles of transparency, competition and the use of objective criteria in making decisions.

Mr Campbell said: “There has been increased activity in government in competition with the rest of the world in acquiring goods and services necessary for recovery after the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic.

“The Office of Project Management and Procurement has been instrumental in, and continues to play a key role in economic recovery initiatives, government reform initiatives and business continuity across ministries.

“The Office of Project Management and Procurement has now taken the next step towards leveraging sustainable public procurement by actively participating in a tailored public procurement programme led by the United Nations Environment Programme.

“This will involve capacity building among public officers along with a deeper understanding of inter-ministry operation and collaboration.

“This is key to ensuring sustainable public procurement and more efficient project planning, delivery and public implementation.”

The Initiative will include the following:

• Customised training for authorised public officers, which will increase capacity and knowledge

• Stabilising existing procurement processes to ensure better planned and controlled spending

• Implementing and monitoring more sustainable public procurement criteria that will promote small and medium-sized enterprises on the island

The special training is designed to support the development of sustainable public procurement legal frameworks and strategies.

Some of the tools for implementation and use include guidelines in key areas and knowledge of sustainable public procurement for persons operating in the public and private sectors.

The Minister said that participating in this project will also enhance Bermuda's maturity and standing with regard to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

In February 2024, the United Nations Environment Programme signed an agreement with Crown Agents Limited (UK), which is currently reaching out and engaging OPMP and other government agencies and stakeholders to start the implementation phase.

Other Governments include Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, and Trinidad and Tobago.

The Minister added: “This effort involves cross-ministry collaboration to ensure effectiveness and optimal benefits.”