SANTO DOMINGO. – “Today we celebrate a historic achievement that is the fruit of perseverance, unity and unwavering commitment to justice,” said members of the Codiano Institutional Committee (CIC) last night, after learning that the Chamber of Deputies, like the Senate, approved the bill ordering the payment of old debts to more than 300 small contractors to whom the State has owed money since 1996.
In a statement, the business leaders said that the passage into law of the bill ordering payment of the debt to contractors represents a long-awaited moral and institutional victory.
"This progress honors years of firm and responsible struggle, and vindicates the dignity of hundreds of contractors who never relinquished their rights. Every effort, every voice raised, and every step taken by the CIC was crucial for the State to recognize and assume its obligation today," they stated.
They stated that "this victory strengthens the institutions and sets a precedent that perseverance and truth ultimately prevail.".
Approval
The Chamber of Deputies approved yesterday, Monday, the bill that will facilitate the payment of debts corresponding to works carried out by small contractors, in various government instances.
Last Saturday, the Senate of the Republic, in an extraordinary session, approved the bill authored by Senator Franklin Romero, who stated that it honors the memory of many contractors who built and delivered works to the State, putting their economic future at risk, and whose work has not been recognized.
The now law authorizes public administration entities, in an exceptional and restrictive manner, to exempt them from complying with the selection processes established in Law No. 340-06 on Public Purchases and Contracts.
This will allow for the recognition of work carried out without signed contracts or addenda, and the classification of outstanding balances as internal public debt incurred by the Dominican State.
The group of professionals maintained a constant struggle to get their work recognized.
