Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 24 February 2021
1069. Deputy Pádraig O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if the procurement process carried out by Horse Sport Ireland for the Greenogue site meet the requirements of the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform for State agencies (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9905/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe location of the headquarters of the Horse Sport Ireland (HSI) and its Centre of Excellence is a matter for its Board. The HSI has examined a number of sites, as part of a selection process carried out by a sub-committee of the Board.
HSI advises that the work of the sub-committee has been ongoing for two years and has involved the consideration of many different locations. It engaged with a range of potential sites and hired a property valuer and adviser to review property and land offerings as well as availability of property to purchase, rent or develop. The sub-committee examined options not involving additional state funding.
I am advised that the Procurement Directive and the European Union (Award of Public Authority Contracts) Regulations 2016, do not apply to public service contracts for the acquisition or rental, by whatever financial means, of land, existing buildings or other immovable property or any interest in or right over any such land, existing buildings or immovable property. My Department has sought additional information in relation to this matter and is examining it at present.
