asked the Minister for Finance if he will outline Government policy with regard to State and semi-State purchasing of goods which have had components manufactured in this country; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna— Questions. Oral Answers. - State and Semi-State Purchasing of Goods.
11.
Purchasing by State and semi-State bodies of goods which have had components manufactured in this country is encouraged where these goods are competitive on grounds of price and quality. However, discrimination in favour of Irish suppliers on grounds of nationality would be contrary to the Treaty of Rome and, more specifically, this country's obligation under the EC Supply Contracts Directives and the GATT Government Procurement Code, and is not, therefore, allowable.