Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 July 2019
2204. Deputy Jack Chambers asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the progress made on requiring all procurements of public funds to include green criteria; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32072/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Government Decision of 3 January this year required the Office of Government Procurement (OGP) and my Department to bring forward proposals on implementing green public procurement as part of national public procurement policy and practice by end-March 2019, on foot of which the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform would issue a procurement circular to ensure that all Departments and public bodies would implement this policy.
My Department has collaborated with the OGP and is currently finalising a circular which will outline how departments and public bodies can incorporate green criteria into procurement practices and what resources and supports are in development to support this.
In line with Action 148 of the Climate Action Plan, the circular will be published during Q3 of this year. In the meantime, my Department is continuing to work with the OGP on the inclusion of green criteria in relevant procurement frameworks as they arise for renewal. My Department continues to roll out networking and training events for Government Departments, local authorities and public bodies to raise awareness of the benefits of green public procurement and to provide assistance in how to incorporate green criteria into the tender process.
