I propose to take Questions Nos. 236 to 241, inclusive, together.
I am advised by the Commissioners of Public Works that a notice inviting applications to operate a bicycle-hire concession in the Phoenix Park, with a detailed specification of requirements, was placed on the E-Tenders website portal on the 1st April 2015. Two applicants applied.
The listed criteria in the specification were deemed to be of equal importance and a pass/fail marking system was applied. As both applicants were deemed capable of providing the required level of service, they were called for interview to outline their business proposals. The marking system, which was used at the interview, was presented to both applicants in advance of their presentation. Both candidates were deemed suitable to operate the system and the concession was awarded to the applicant who offered the highest facility fee.
The OPW advertises all concessions using the E-Tender portal or by public advertisement. Concessions are awarded on the basis of quality, service delivery to the public in keeping with the overall conservation and protection of the relevant site. Equal opportunity is given to all applicants who wish to submit a proposal.
The OPW does not seek to control concessionaires pricing range.