Compliments of the Central Government
The former Minister of Health of the Generalitat Josep Maria Argimon has praised the Central Government’s decision to buy masks without a public tender during the coronavirus pandemic. According to Argimon, this decision was the right one and made it possible to avoid long waiting periods for obtaining masks.
Reasons for the Decision
Argimon has argued that public tenders have an average duration of between 9 and 15 months, and in this context, direct purchase was the best option to ensure a quick supply of masks. This was especially crucial in a complicated situation like the pandemic.
Transparency and Audits
Argimon himself has acknowledged the possibility of possible irregularities, but has emphasized that the Audit Office audited the contracts made during this period, and that no significant cases of corruption have been detected. However, he has pointed out situations of abuse in prices.