Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 13 February 2024
588. Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for Health if he is satisfied that all systems of confidentiality are used when tendering for the National Children’s Hospital; what controls his Department has over the process; if he is satisfied that no inappropriate influence is placed on the tender; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6443/24]
View answerThe Department of Health expects that agencies operating under its aegis undertaking procurements for any goods and services are in compliance with procurement law and regulations and with current procurement rules and guidelines as set out by the Office of Government Procurement. Confirmation of their compliance should be set out in their statement of Internal controls as required in Appendix D of the Code of Practice for the Governance of State Bodies: Business & Financial Reporting requirements.
Link below to Code of Practice for the Governance of State Bodies Business and Financial Reporting Requirements:
www.gov.ie/pdf/?file=https://assets.gov.ie/138842/e76bf59c-d822-425d-9224-a921963460c6.pdf#page=null (www.gov.ie)
The National Paediatric Hospital Development Board (NPHDB) has statutory responsibility for planning, designing, building and equipping the New Children's Hospital (NCH). In relation to contracts awarded for the NCH and the controls in place, I have referred your question to the NPHDB for direct reply.
Children’s Health Ireland (CHI) has also undertaken procurements in respect of the NCH, and therefore I have also referred your question to CHI for direct reply.
