asked the Minister for Health whether he is aware that the contract for the supply of structural steel, including steel reinforcement, for the first unit of the new Limerick Regional Hospital, has been given to an English firm although no Irish firm was afforded an opportunity of tendering for the contract; and, if so, whether he will state what steps he proposes to take to protect Irish industry against such unfair practice and to safeguard the employment of Irish workers in the structural steel and steel reinforcement industry.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Limerick Regional Hospital Contract.
I am assured that the position is not as indicated by the Deputy and that in fact no contract has so far been placed for the building of the Limerick Regional Hospital or for the supply of structural steel and steel reinforcement for this project. It is the intention that tenders will be invited for the supply of these materials and this procedure will, I take it, meet the Deputy's point fully. I should like to add that it is the normal practice in connection with hospital building contracts to include a provision that all materials, appliances and fittings required for the works will be obtained wherever possible from manufacturers operating in this country and such a provision has been included in the documents relating to the Limerick project.
It appears that the matter has been checked by the Minister when it was submitted to him but will he take steps to ensure in future that it will not be possible for this to occur as it could have occurred on this occasion if the matter had not been brought to his attention?
I shall certainly convey the Deputy's suggestion to the Minister.