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Save the Children Statement on Addressing Post-Tsunami Reconstruction Issues
Jakarta, Indonesia (March 17, 2006) – After an internal assessment, Save the Children has uncovered substandard workmanship including in some cases the use of untreated timber in its construction programs in Aceh province and is moving quickly to remedy the problems.
The agency has informed the The Aceh and Nias Reconstruction and Rehabilitation Agency (BRR) about the problems it has uncovered. The agency also has conducted a series of meetings with communities in the affected areas while also meeting with local authorities and contractors.
Save the Children has temporarily postponed new construction while working to ensure the highest levels of accountability, transparency and workmanship. In addition, the agency will take the necessary steps to repair or rebuild structures that are not up to standard.
Save the Children has terminated the contracts of three housing inspectors for failing to do their jobs properly. The agency has launched an internal investigation into the circumstances of recent inspections and will report our findings to appropriate Indonesian authorities.
Save the Children had instituted systems to continually monitor and evaluate procedures. These systems have proved effective. The agency caught the problem early and will be able to rectify it quickly.
Save the Children has worked in Aceh for 30 years and remains committed to the long-term development of the province. The agency says it remains committed to build 3,660 permanent houses and 94 schools, and rebuild or repair 70 health centers. The construction work is part of Save the Children's five-year tsunami relief plan.
