ANSWER:
Provisional sums are funds defined in the Data Sheet of the RFP and generally allocated to Equipment, Seminars, Training required during implementation of a TA. The amount is fixed and must be included in the consultant's financial proposal. Whereas the selected consultant is responsible for administering the amount, the consultant will consult with and seek the agreement of the EA and ADB prior to any expenditure. The sum is generally determined jointly at the time of TA fact finding by the ADB and EA, and its 'fixed' status protects the EA in ensuring that the budget for equipment, workshops and training is itemised and spent on those items and does not get 'muddled-up' with other funds from which the consultant could be expected to make a profit from.
|