Pierre Brunet Entreprise Générale defends tender process amid criticism of demolition contracts

Pierre Brunet Entreprise Générale, a leading contractor, has been involved in the demolition of several buildings in the Port Vila Central Business District (CBD) following the devastating earthquake on December 17, 2024. Recently, the company has faced criticism on social media platforms regarding their involvement.

The controversy stems from growing concerns that local contractors are being overlooked in the process. Many have questioned why local companies were not given the opportunity to participate in the ongoing demolition work, which has sparked public debate.

When contacted, Pierre-Henry Brunet, CEO of Pierre Brunet Entreprise Générale, stated that the demolition project followed a competitive bidding process. "There was a call for tenders for the demolition, and several bids were submitted. We were selected because we offered the safest and most reliable solution for the demolition," Brunet explained, emphasizing the rigor of the selection process.

However, an investigation by the Vanuatu Daily Post revealed that there was no publicly available information on the Central Tender Committee website regarding the tender, and it appeared that any information about the tender may have been removed after the contract was awarded. Despite this, Brunet maintains that his company's bid was one of many that were thoroughly considered, ensuring fairness.

“There were other companies involved in bidding for the contract. The truth is that we are not the only company in town that has been awarded demolition work. Two other contractors were awarded contracts but withdrew after realizing that the work required very precise cutting,” Brunet said, highlighting the complexity of the project.

Brunet also revealed that his company formed a joint venture with Ward Demolition Ltd., a well-known New Zealand-based company specializing in all forms of demolition, including commercial, industrial, and residential buildings. "If it were up to me, I wouldn't have bid for this work. I am a building contractor—I build, I don't demolish," Brunet stated, clarifying his company's primary focus.

Meanwhile, Shrek Construction Supplies Co. Ltd., a local contractor based in the Stele Mare area, was asked for their perspective. The company acknowledged that they possess the machinery required to demolish low-rise buildings but expressed uncertainty about the administrative procedures for government demolition permits. "Our machinery can easily demolish low-rise buildings. However, we are unaware of any administrative permits from the government regarding building demolition projects or whether certain companies are designated to undertake such work. Considering the potential challenges, we would not want to get involved in such projects," Shrek Construction stated, indicating a cautious approach.