asked the Minister for Local Government and Public Health whether the Committee specifically appointed to examine tenders for the awarding of contracts under the Combined Purchasing Board of his Department, by a majority of four to one, awarded the contract for the supply of tar to a local firm; and whether, notwithstanding this decision, the contract was placed with a cross-Channel firm; and, if, so, whether he will state the reason for the overriding of the decision of the Committee.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Purchasing Board Contracts.
I was unable to accept the recommendation of the Committee in this case, as the quotation of the local firm was much higher than the firm which has been appointed.
Would the Minister state by what amount was the figure higher than the other quotation?
The figure was higher by approximately £7,034, involving an increase of approximately 20.8 per cent. on the total cost of the contract.