by TIM SLINGER

THE CONTROVERSIAL FIRING of Sanitation Service Authority (SSA) boss Stanton Alleyne last Tuesday was the latest chapter in a pay dispute involving the SSA and small contractor Andrew Thomas that dates back to 1999.

The contractor has complained of not being paid on a Government contract.

In a letter, a copy of which was obtained by the WEEKEND NATION, Thomas, of Headley's Land, Deacons Road, St Michael, and the key figure behind Andrew Builders, wrote former Prime Minister Owen Arthur charging that SSA authorities were deliberately not paying him oustanding monies for work done on the renovation of the Government statutory corporation's building in Wildey, St Michael.

According to the letter dated August 9, 1999, Thomas claimed both parties had agreed to a $130 000 price tag for renovations of the SSA's recreation facility and storage room.

It also stated other requests for additional work was made by Alleyne, then deputy manager, including construction of a shed and demolition of an adjoining area.

"A quotation of $25 320 was submitted. Mr Alleyne refused, stating that he was only able to pay $20 000. I submitted the quotation for $20 320 but only received $20 000," the letter stated.

Thomas also spoke about later submitting a bill to then SSA general manager Chris Griffith and Alleyne claiming $35 500 as outstanding funds due to his company, but added that after three weeks had passed, he "heard nothing concerning the bill I submitted".

In his letter, which was also copied to then Minister of Health Phillip Goddard, Thomas charged failure by SSA to pay the bill resulted in his company falling into serious debt problems, including an overdraft facility with a bank.

"I am convinced at this time that the Sanitation Service Authority is avoiding me and settling the outstanding debt, thereby making it very difficult for me to honour my obligations to the businesses I owe as well as the Caribbean Commercial Bank," the letter added.

Several unsuccessful attempts were made yesterday to reach Thomas for further comment.