asked the Minister for Local Government if he is aware that, according to the 1973 annual report of the National Building Agency, 12 of the 19 consultants retained by the agency are Dublin firms; if he considers that where the agency is carrying out major developments in a region a local consultant would be more appropriate; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - NBA Consultants.
33.
The list of consultants which is published in the 1973 annual report of the National Building Agency includes 12 firms with Dublin addresses. Some of these firms also have offices in provincial centres.
The appointment of consultants is a matter entirely for the agency. I understand, however, that its board of directors is anxious to spread the appointment of consultants as widely as possible amongst suitable firms; that applications were invited recently, by public advertisement, from consultants who wished to be included in the agency's panel; that these applications are now under consideration; and that, normally, preference is given to local consultants where a number of firms of equal suitability are available.
Will the Minister be whispering in anyone's ear?
No. The Minister does not whisper in anyone's ear. That was a bad habit that existed before I took office and it has been dropped.