asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce the Government Minister, Department and agencies who are responsible for identifying market opportunities to Irish firms as a result of the opening of the public procurement market in the EC in 1992.
Written Answers. - Public Procurement Market.
104.
The European Council have recognised the opening up of the public procurement market as a key element in the completion of the internal market.
I am the Minister designated by the Government to co-ordinate our overall position on the internal market and to represent this country at the internal market Council of Ministers.
The different directives which will be negotiated and given effect over time will involve works and supply contracts which embrace different goods and services. The nature of the goods and services will, of course, determine the Ministers, Departments and agencies directly responsible.
The State agencies will offer their usual services to firms seeking public contracts in the same way that they offer assistance in developing other export opportunities. In the case of my own Department, CTT already provide firms with up to date information on public works and supply contracts in the EC. It has restructured its overseas office network and its market information and advisory services to respond better to any new opportunities.
The Deputy will be well aware that, while Ministers, Departments and agencies will give all assistance possible, at the end of the day it is the responsibility of the individual firm to position itself so as to maximise the benefits arising from the new arrangements.