General News of Wednesday, 27 March 2013

Source: Joy Online

Job 600 already deteriorating

Even before the newly refurbished edifice for use as offices for parliamentarians is handed over, the Job 600 is reported to be showing signs of decay.

Members of Parliament (MPs) are therefore questioning the quality of work done on the structure expected to accommodate the over 200 MPs.

The legislators have raised serious concerns about the quality of materials used and work done on the building.

According to Joy News’ Parliamentary correspondent, Elton John Brobbey, some visible fittings including balustrades which have began decaying were discovered by members of Parliament’s Works and Housing Committee on Wednesday, when they toured the premises to ascertain the extent of work done.

He reports the site engineer, Bensti Enchill, attributes the poor state of the structure to its proximity to the sea. Renovation works on the edifice popularly known as JOB 600 began in 2007.

The site engineer reportedly gave the edifice, a rating of “fair” when Chair of the Parliamentary sub-committee on housing demanded his expert opinion on the state of the structure.

The engineer was however unable to give a set time for completion of work on the legislative office block. The Contractor has since been asked to replace the deteriorating fittings with quality materials.

Parliament goes on recess today and members are expected to resume business in mid May.