Vol. 537 No. 3
52 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government if there have been any complaints from individuals or companies regarding the tendering system operated by public bodies including local authorities. [14551/01]
175 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government if he is satisfied that the system of tendering and awarding of contracts in the public sector including local authorities is above board and that there are no corrupt practices involved. [14550/01]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 52 and 175 together.
My colleague, the Minister for Finance, is primarily responsible for national policy and guidelines on tendering and contract award procedures in the public sector and for the implementation of EU public procurement directives.
As regards local authorities and other agencies operating under the aegis of my Department, I can confirm that they have been directed to comply with the national guidelines on public procurement, 1994 edition, and the relevant EU directives. These guidelines and legislation are designed to ensure that the award of public contracts is transparent and fair. The award of public contracts is subject to scrutiny by local or national auditors as appropriate and, in the case of EU funded projects, by EU auditors. While unsuccessful bidders may occasionally be aggrieved by some aspect of the operation or outcome of the tendering process in particular cases, I am not aware of any general complaints from individuals or companies about the system of tendering and award of public contracts by the authorities or agencies concerned.
So far as my Department is aware there have been no allegations of corruption in the award of contracts by local authorities or the other relevant agencies. Any such allegations should be made to the relevant authority or agency and to the Garda Síochána for investigation and any appropriate action.
