CONTRACTOR General Greg Christie says that his office will be investigating parish councils following allegations by the People’s National Party (PNP) that disbursements are being made to selected divisions in which by-elections are likely to be held shortly.

In a statement this afternoon, the Office of the Contractor-General (OCG) said that it had received information, including sworn statements regarding allegations and evidence of irregular procurement practices at some parish councils.

The OCG said that it had informed Government of a comprehensive audit of procurements made by all parish councils, “with specific focus upon the use of the forced account contracting methodology to complete works contracts”.

It said that formal allegations were made last November to the OCG, the Police High Command and to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) concerning fraudulent and corrupt practices at one parish council.

The OCG said it has requested particulars about 2010 work projects and current projects ahead of the audit. The office said it will mobilise its entire inspectorate to undertake the audit.

“In any instance in which serious acts of irregularity or impropriety are identified in the procurement practices of any Parish Council, the appropriate steps will be taken by the OCG to ensure that the offending party or parties are brought to book,” said the statement.