asked the Minister for Health if consideration is given to an Irish firm (details supplied) in Dublin 3 who claim to have lost £1.2 million in contracts which were given to UK manufacturers; if it is policy to give preference to Irish manufacturers; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Securing of Contracts.
123.
I am not in a position to comment on the failure of an Irish firm to secure contracts in competition with UK manufacturers.
This country is prohibited under Article 30 of the Treaty of Rome from giving preference to the purchase of Irish manufactured goods. However, where my Department has been directly involved it has been the practice to instruct purchasers to give Irish manufacturers every opportunity to submit tenders.
It is highly desirable that Irish manufacturers should be able to secure contracts in competition with other EC manufacturers. Where my Department is involved it will continue to be the policy of giving Irish manufacturers every opportunity to compete for contracts.