Sorca Clarke
Question:695. Deputy Sorca Clarke asked the Minister for Defence if his Department is considering an increase in the daily budget for catering in the Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2249/22]
View answerWednesday, 19 January 2022
Questions (695)
Written answers
A wide range of non-capital goods and services are procured directly by the Defence Forces. These include items associated with day to day operations such as food, clothing, transport, utilities and the maintenance of equipment. The services of the Office of Government Procurement and centralised framework agreements are also used to acquire items that may be in common demand by a number of Departments.
I am advised by the Defence Forces that the Office of Government Procurement has put framework contract arrangements in place for major food procurements for the Defence Forces and other public services bodies. The centralised framework contract arrangements allow for the procurement of fish, dairy, frozen foods, meat, poultry, fruit and vegetables, bread and eggs.
Defence Forces personnel are entitled to avail of daily meals in certain circumstances which include personnel engaged in security duties, approved training courses, on operational exercises and single personnel living in barracks. I am advised by the military authorities that the daily ration rate equates to €4.20 per day. I am advised that this rate is kept under review and is subject to the re-tendering of OGP food contracts, a process which is currently underway.
I am satisfied that the procurement of food by the Defence Forces using the centralised framework arrangements sourcing model is consistent with Government procurement policy.
I am assured by the military authorities that the food procured under the Office of Government Procurement's centralised framework arrangements is to the required standard.