Vol. 424 No. 5
95 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Education if his attention has been drawn to the fact that some third level institutions are using wooden furniture which is sourced abroad when the same products can be produced in Ireland from native timber and at a lesser cost; and if he will ensure that a Country of Origin query is included on tender forms for such products in the future.
My attention has not been drawn to the use of wooden furniture in third level institutions which has been sourced abroad. It is my Department's policy in relation to the supply of furniture for use in education institutions that procurement accords with the various EC Directives. I am pleased to say that the vast bulk of all furniture funded by my Department is manufactured in Ireland.
My Department's tender documentation requires all suppliers to submit detailed specifications and literature, including information on Irish or foreign manufactured items.
