The number of contracts currently in force in my Department is 41.
A total of 36 contracts are renewed annually, three contracts are currently running for a two year duration and two contracts for a three year duration.
Where possible, contracts are granted as a result of competitive tendering. Competitive tendering is not possible in all cases, however, such as maintenance contracts relating to computer applications where technical support is only provided by specific suppliers. Maintenance contracts for office machinery are awarded to the supplier of the original equipment where no other supplier is in a position to provide spare parts etc.