asked the Minister for Education if there are any proposals to ensure greater accountability in relation to the tendering system for the construction of primary and post-primary schools; and if a system will be introduced similar to the operation used by private architects whereby the full list of contractors and an adjacent list of prices is notified to all those tendering.
Written Answers. - Tendering System for Schools.
59.
I am not aware of any inadequacy in accountability in relation to the tendering system for school building projects for which I, as Minister for Education, am responsible. Tenders for building projects for which I am the client are dealt with in accordance with the approved Government contracts procedures, which stipulate that the tenders and all information relating to them should be treated as strictly confidential. In the circumstances, therefore, I am not in a position to alter the procedure as suggested by the Deputy.