Vol. 458 No. 7
16 Kathleen Lynch asked the Minister for Defence if he will consider reviewing his Department's procurement policy with a view to excluding companies that export anti-personnel mines to conflict zone from tendering in view of Ireland's stated position on anti-personnel landmines; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17515/95]
When required by the Defence Forces defensive equipment has to be purchased from sources abroad. Procurement policy is already subject to careful scrutiny and is conducted on the basis of rigorous controls. It would however be extremely difficult to establish a new and comprehensive basis for the exclusion of companies which may be involved with landmines, in some shape or form, from taking part in supply competitions.
The Government support the objective of an international ban on anti-personnel landmines which have caused civilian suffering on a huge scale.
