I propose to take Questions Nos. 455 and 508 together.
The provision of public library services is a matter for each local authority in its capacity as a library authority under the Local Government Act 2001. This includes the procurement of books and other library related services. My Department has no direct role in these matters.
However, a national tender for book stock procurement is being progressed by the Local Government Management Agency (LGMA) on behalf of local authorities. The Request for Tender, published on the 'e-Tenders' website in October 2016, set out the award criteria and the marking scheme for the tender. The LGMA has confirmed that the process was conducted in a fair and transparent manner and in full compliance with all regulations, policies and guidelines governing public procurement in Ireland. There was no discrimination against any supplier. Indeed, the publication of the tender in six lots sought, as much as possible, to ensure equality of opportunity for all suppliers. At this stage in the process, Irish companies have been successful in four of the six lots.
The procedures for unsuccessful tenderers seeking remedies are clearly prescribed in the relevant regulations and my Department has no authority under the procurement legislation to intervene in an independent procurement process. As the tender process has not been finalised it would be inappropriate for me to comment further on the process or the outcome at this time.
