Jamaica, in 1986, took a massive step towards maturing its political processes when it announced its first contractor general in Ashton Wright. The position has since served as a conduit for the rooting out of corruption and ensuring a minimum standard of professionalism in all affairs having to deal with the public purse.

Published Thursday October 2, 1986

Contractor-General sworn; tells responsibilities

THE Contractor-General is not attached to any Ministry, is answerable only to Parliament through a parliamentary committee, and is empowered to investigate any contract involving the Government.

This outline of his responsibilities was given by Jamaica’s first Contractor-General, Mr. Ashton Wright, to masses yesterday after he was sworn into his new post by Governor-General, Sir Florizel Glasspole, at Kings House.

Mr. Wright said he was answerable to the committee of Parliament, which consisted of the Speaker of the President of the Senate and the Leaders of Government Business and Opposition in both Houses of Parliament.

The Contractor-General said that he did not expect the committee to tell him how to act but there should be an understanding that the committee did not have the right to dictate “the how”.

“I am empowered to investigate contracts and there will be technical and legal officers and qualified engineers on my staff.  My powers will be just like the role of a High Court Judge. As I can call witnesses and enforce their presence,” he said.

Asked how effective he would be in dealing with contracts awarded by the political parties when in government. Mr. Wright said he could not say in advance how effective he would be.  “However, I have worked with both parties and have maintained an even keel, and I will not be recognizing any contract as being JLP or PNP,” he said.

At the swearing-in ceremony, Sir Florizel described the occasion as a historic one as it was the swearing in of the first holder of the post under the Contractor-General Act 1983.

Stating that doubtless the post would present a challenge to Mr. Wright, Sir Florizel said he was sure that Mr. Wright would have to go abroad to get an idea of what happened in this field where it was practiced, in order that he might do what was right and proper.

Mr. Wright, he said, was a man of courage.

Sir Florizel congratulated Mr. Wright and told him that he had taken up the job with the confidence of the Prime Minister and of Mr. Michael Manley.

Replying, Mr. Wright said that he regarded the moment as “a big one” in his life, despite his long and valued career. He said he had a few soul-searching moments when he was approached about the job.

“One thing I thought about was my age and I figured if Sir Florizel who is older than me, could do it, I could,” he said.

Declaring that he had not underestimated the importance of the job or the necessity for honesty and impartiality, he promised that he would do everything to live up to expectations, bearing in mind the need for integrity, dedication and impartiality.

Mr. Wright’s relatives and friends, as well as members of the legal community, were present at the ceremony.

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