Value for money key with gov’t consultants, says Premier

Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley has addressed concerns regarding the government’s use of consultancy contracts, emphasising the importance of flexibility and value for taxpayers.

He noted that private sector consultants deliver certain services more effectively, especially for short-term assignments or specialised tasks that do not require full-time staff.

“Certain types of services are best delivered by persons who are private or in the private sector,” Dr Wheatley explained during a recent press conference. He highlighted that the distinction between consultants and permanent employees should not overshadow the primary goal: delivering value to the people of the Virgin Islands.

Terminating underperforming consultants

The Premier also pointed out that terminating underperforming consultants is more straightforward than removing permanent employees, allowing for greater accountability.

“If persons are not giving value and they’re consultants, let’s end that contract,” he asserted. He further advocated for performance reviews to ensure that all government personnel, whether consultants or permanent staff, fulfil their duties effectively.

Addressing the structure of government operations, Dr Wheatley explained the necessity for flexibility in engaging various types of workers. He mentioned that the government employs different structures, including statutory bodies and consultants, to adapt to dynamic needs.

Utilising all available tools to serve public

According to the Premier, this approach enables the government to utilise all available tools to serve the public efficiently.

The Premier cited the example of beautification projects, where the government might choose between expanding the Public Works Department or hiring private sector teams for specific periods.

“We could have Public Works having 500 employees, or we can have private sector persons do a blitz around key times of the year,” he explained while underscoring the need for flexibility in government operations.

Premier’s consultancy expenditures

This discussion comes amid scrutiny of consultancy expenditures within the Premier’s Office. In November 2024, Sixth District Representative Myron Walwyn raised concerns about consultancy expenses nearing $1 million for the year. He questioned the necessity of these costs and the roles of specific consultants, including a former Speaker of the House and an advisor referred to as a “Trinidad man.”

In response, Premier Wheatley defended using consultants, stating that consultancy is standard practice across governments. “Every single government… uses consultancy,” he remarked while urging a fair perspective.

During a Standing Finance Committee budget session late last year, Permanent Secretary Carolyn Stoutt-Igwe revealed that the Premier had two special advisors — each compensated at $120,000 per year — and seven consultants. However, she was unable to provide detailed information about their work, as they reported directly to the Premier.