Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 27 March 2018
218. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the further reforms that may be introduced regarding the manner in which public contracts or procurements are undertaken with a view to identifying the most cost effective and expeditious procedures, thereby eliminating costly delays; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13538/18]
Amharc ar fhreagra219. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the extent to which further reforms are required in respect of the awarding of public contracts or procurements with a view to ensuring that business in this country can be undertaken in a way that is competitive with all other European countries; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13539/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 218 and 219 together.
Procurement is a key element of the Government’s Public Service Reform agenda and is a very significant portion of overall spending. The State buys everything from pens and paper, through to naval vessels and surgical equipment. In this context, it is essential that the Public Service operates in a co-ordinated and efficient way and delivers much needed public services in a sustainable manner. That is why the Government established the Office of Government Procurement (OGP).
The OGP commenced operations in 2014 and, together with four key sectors (Health, Defence, Education and Local Government), has responsibility for sourcing goods and services on behalf of the Public Service. In addition, the OGP also has responsibility for procurement policy and offers advice on procurement procedures.
The OGP has progressed the National Public Procurement Policy Framework which enables a more consistent approach to public procurement across the public sector by setting out the procurement procedures to be followed by public bodies. Last July, my colleague, Minister of State Patrick O’Donovan, launched new Public Procurement Guidelines for Goods and Services. This comprehensive interpretation of the public procurement directives has been designed to improve consistency and promote best practice in the application of the public procurement rules. In addition, the OGP maintains a proactive line of communication with SME stakeholders to ensure they are informed of policy developments and that these are communicated by them to their members.
The OGP together with four key sectors, speaks with “one voice” for the public service to the market for each category of expenditure, eliminating duplication and taking advantage of the scale of public procurement to best effect. This move is in line with best practice in the public and private sector and is part of the continuing reform programme being driven by my Department.
The Government has committed in the Programme for Partnership Government to examining the new procurement structures in place and where necessary make adjustments according to best international practice and in conjunction with Irish business.
