Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 16 May 2012
16 Deputy Pat Deering asked the Minister for Health if his attention has been drawn to the disquiet surrounding the ongoing Health Service Executive tender for enhanced home care services and the complaints regarding the running of the tender (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24073/12]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Health Service Executive (HSE) recently finalised a new Procurement Framework, which will be operational shortly. This means that in each Local Health Office area selected providers meeting certain specified standards will be available to deliver home care packages to HSE clients.
The HSE indicate that it is satisfied that the tender has been carried out in accordance with all appropriate EU legislation. There were ninety two tenders received across thirty two lots (Local Health Offices). Twenty six successful tenderers have been identified across these lots, and a comprehensive debriefing process has now been carried out with all unsuccessful service providers, in accordance with procurement legislation and guidelines. This includes addressing, as appropriate, the specific issues raised by the Deputy. The HSE will be finalising Agreements with successful service providers in the coming weeks.
Companies seeking the assistance of consultants in compiling their tender response is a matter for the individual companies concerned.
In respect of alleged collusion, HSE tender documents (including those used in this tender process) specifically exclude collusion between bidders. The HSE issued clear instructions in this regard as part of this tender process.
It should be noted that the outcome of this tender process will not impact on existing service providers, and will only apply to any new home care packages to be assigned during the lifetime of the agreement. The fundamental motivation for this tender was the introduction of improved standards for enhanced home care services for clients nationwide.
