An internal audit found emails in which a Logistics Manager requests that a supplier of masks make an advanced payment of a sanction for a delay in delivering five million masks. An intimidating phone call about the issue was also reported.
The CCSS assures that this is against protocol and is not an endorsed procedure. Therefore, it asks the Prosecutor’s Office to investigate.
It was on May 27 that MR Political Communications won the emergency contract for $1.9 million to supply masks for the protection of health personnel. The masks were to enter the CCSS warehouses the first week of June. None have been delivered, to date.
The CCSS never collects fines in advance. The procedure is to deduct fines from future payments. The supplier never sends payment of fines. In the event of delays by a contractor, public entities can charge fines per day up to a maximum of 25% of the total value of the contract.
Six officials face administrative investigations in regards to this issue, which is in the hands of the Public Ministry.
