Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 25 February 2021
350. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the extent to which standard procurement procedures have been applied in the case of the proposed relocation of the centre of excellence of Horse Sport Ireland to a new location; if the normal procurement tests have been applied and incorporated in the process; if best value for money has been proven; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10904/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe location of the headquarters of the Horse Sport Ireland (HSI) and its Centre of Excellence is a matter for its Board. A number of sites have been examined 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 advisor to review property and land offerings as well as availability of property to purchase, rent or develop. The sub-committee examined options not involving state funding.
My Department is examining this matter at present, however, I am advised that the Procurement Directive and the European Union (Award of Public Authority Contracts) Regulations 2016, do not apply to 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.
