Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 9 October 2014
27. Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform his policy regarding public expenditure on, or his plans to further regulate Government-funded use of, private consultants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38185/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraAll public bodies are already required under guidelines for the engagement of consultants to ensure that:
- a firm business case is properly established prior to the engagement process;
- consultancy services are acquired in the most economical manner in accordance with national and EU rules on procurement, specifically that consultants are appointed in an open, competitive and non-discriminatory manner that delivers best value for money;
- consultancies are managed effectively once engaged; and
- the output and impact of consultancies are adequately assessed.
The policy, therefore, on expenditure on consultancy services is quite firm: it must result in value for money for the public.
