asked the Minister for Defence if he will state whether the Ministry of Defence invites contracts for the supply of meat, and, if so, are such contracts invited by advertisements, and will he give the dates of such advertisements during the past two years and the number of contracts entered into for three, six or twelve months, or any shorter period.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Contracts for Meat Supply.
Contracts for the supply of meat to the Defence Forces are placed as a result of competitive tendering following written invitations to, tender. During the past two years tenders for the supply of food have not been invited by public advertisement, and contracts made did not extend beyond three months. At present, however, contracts are made whenever practicable for a period of six months. The work of ascertaining the number of contracts entered into during the periods mentioned would involve considerable time and labour, which would not be justified in existing circumstances.