Pierre Brunet Entreprise Générale defends tender process amid criticism of demolition contracts
March 20, 2025 9:51 pm | Posted in Business News | Share now TwitterFacebook
By Nicholas Mwai.
Pierre Brunet Entreprise Générale, a leading contractor involved in the demolition of several buildings in Port Vila’s Central Business District (CBD) following the devastating earthquake on December 17, 2024, has recently come under criticism on social media platforms.
The controversy stems from growing concerns that local contractors were overlooked. Many have questioned why local firms were not given the opportunity to engage in the ongoing demolition works.
When contacted, Pierre-Henri Brunet, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Pierre Brunet Entreprise Générale, said the demolition project followed a competitive tender process. “There was a tender for demolition, and multiple bids were submitted. We were chosen because we offered the safest and most reliable solution for the demolition,” Brunet explained.
However, an investigation by the Vanuatu Daily Post revealed that no public tender was available on the Central Tender Board website, and it appeared that any information about the tender might have been removed after the contract was awarded. Despite this, Brunet maintained that his company’s bid was one of many that were thoroughly considered.
“There were other companies that bid for the contract. The truth is, we are not the only company awarded the demolition work in town. Two other contractors also won bids, but they pulled out after realising that the work required a very precise cut,” Brunet stated.
Brunet also revealed that his company entered into a joint venture with Ward Demolition Ltd., a renowned New Zealand-based company that specialises in various forms of demolition, including commercial, industrial, and residential buildings. “If it were up to me, I wouldn’t have bid for this work. I’m a building contractor—I build, I don’t demolish,” Brunet stated.
Meanwhile, local contractor Shrek Construction Supplies Co. Ltd., based in the Stella Mare area, was asked for their perspective. The company acknowledged that they possess the machinery required to dismantle low-rise buildings but expressed uncertainty about the administrative processes surrounding government demolition permits.
“Our machinery can dismantle a low-rise building with ease. However, we are not aware of any administrative permits from the government for building demolition projects, nor whether certain companies are designated to undertake such work. Considering the possible challenges involved, we do not wish to get involved in such projects,” Shrek Construction stated.
