Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 25 Sep 1996

Vol. 469 No. 1

Written Answers. - Purchase of Uniforms.

Seán Haughey

Ceist:

137 Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for Finance the procedures involved in relation to the purchase by the Government of uniforms and other items for gardaí, prison officers, members of the Defence Forces and other such officers; whether this is dealt with by a single Department; if so, his views on whether each of those organisations should be given autonomy in relation to such purchases; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16591/96]

Minister of State at the Department of Finance (Mr. Coveney)

The purchase of uniforms, clothing and other items for gardaí, prison officers, members of the Defence Forces, and officers of other Government Departments is organised by the Government Supplies Agency of the Office of Public Works. Acting on requisitions issued by Government Departments, the Government Supplies Agency arranges for the purchase and supply of uniforms and other designated items following Government purchasing procedures and EU Regulations, where applicable.

Tenders are invited from suitable firms and orders are placed with that firm which can supply the item required at the lowest price, to the correct specification and in compliance with the terms and conditions of the tender competition. The Government Supplies Agency has available to it the necessary technical and procedural expertise to ensue that these items purchased conform to the required standard and are at the lowest cost to the State.

The Government Supplies Agency provides a satisfactory procurement function on behalf of other Government Departments. A review of the agency is currently being undertaken.