asked the Minister for Defence if it is the definite policy of the Government to give contracts for the supplies of foodstuffs, etc., for troops in the various Army Commands in the Saorstát to groups of contractors operating from Dublin, and whether he will consider the advisability of placing those contracts with local traders, and thereby help to relieve local unemployment.
CEISTEANNA—QUESTIONS. ORAL ANSWERS. - CONTRACTS FOR THE ARMY.
It is the policy to place contracts for foodstuffs locally, other conditions, for example, price, quality of goods offered, and certainty of delivery, being equal. The Deputy no doubt, is aware that the tendering is competitive. It happens that in some cases that Dublin firms are able to quote lower prices than local traders. The Deputy will understand that it would not be in the public interest to extend a preference to local traders in such circumstances. They, however, manage to secure the bulk of the contracts for supplies on the merits of their tender.
Arising out of that answer, I would ask the Minister if it is possible for one contractor's estimate when submitted, to be shown to another contractor estimating for the same kind of contract?
No; I believe not.