University Hospital of the West Indies, UHWI is under Investigation. The Integrity Commission of Jamaica has initiated an investigation into breaches identified by the Auditor General in a report concerning procurement breaches at the University Hospital of the West Indies (UHWI).
Eric Hosin, the Acting Chief Executive Officer of the University Hospital of the West Indes, UHWI, informed the Public Accounts Committee of Parliament on Tuesday that the anti-corruption agency has requested files related to the alleged misuse of the hospital’s tax-exemption status. Additionally, the agency requested procurement documents associated with civil works mentioned in the audit.
Hosin stated that the institution is currently awaiting the results of the investigation.
He also disclosed that the Major Organized Crime and Anti-Corruption Agency has requested statements from several UHWI employees. These employees are expected to provide their submissions this week.
Additionally, Hosin mentioned that the Jamaica Customs Agency has completed an investigation. The agency submitted its findings to UHWI management regarding customs-related breaches.
The Auditor General’s report, presented to Parliament on January 13, highlighted several procurement violations at UHWI. These included the hospital’s failure to provide procurement documentation for 51 contracts worth a total of $521 million.
University Hospital of the West Indies responded to alleged procurement breaches
On Tuesday, the hospital reported that since the release of the report, it has located documents for 28 of the contracts. These contracts total approximately $270 million.
The audit also revealed that the hospital had used its tax exemption status to import office furniture, laundry, and medical equipment for four unnamed private companies. This led to unpaid customs duties amounting to $23.1 million.
In a formal statement, the hospital declared that it has ceased the practice and has instituted measures to ensure the appropriate application of the UHWI’s tax-exempt status. This information was conveyed in a written response to the parliamentary committee.
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