Pringle questions $2M allocation for bunk beds in government housing project
Opposition Leader Jamale Pringle on Monday raised sharp questions about nearly $2 million in spending on bunk beds within a government relocation initiative, telling Parliament the allocation appears excessive and warrants explanation.
Responding to the 2026 national budget, Pringle cited figures in the government’s supplementary appropriations that show close to $2 million was spent on bunk beds connected to the housing transfers associated with the Booby Alley project. He told lawmakers the cost stood out sharply during his review of the documents.
Pringle asked the government to clarify why such a large sum was required and what became of the items purchased.
“Nearly $2 million” in bunk beds, he said, demands a clear account of where the funds went and how the purchases were justified.
The opposition leader framed the issue as part of a broader pattern of questionable spending he says is reflected throughout the budget.
He argued that the government took an unusually long time to bring the supplementary appropriations to Parliament, suggesting this delay may be linked to discrepancies his review has now identified.
Pringle said the bunk-bed allocation heightens concerns already circulating about inflated costs and a lack of transparency in several government projects.
He told the House that the public deserves clarity, especially given the size of the expenditure and its placement within the relocation programme.
He added that the matter would be revisited as the budget debate continues, saying it forms part of wider accountability questions his party intends to pursue.
