Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 20 March 2024
1047. Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will review a series of procurement processes undertaken by Government (details supplied); if he is satisfied that correct procedures have been adhered to throughout the processes; the verifications he has that such adherence is independently verified; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12901/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraFollowing a complaint that was lodged with the EU Commission in March 2018, it was agreed between my Department and the Commission that a public procurement process would take place in 2022 in respect of certain services namely, studbooks, national breeding and marketing.
Following the tendering process the successful tenderers were as follows:
- National Breeding Services – Horse Sport Ireland,
- Marketing Services for the Sport Horse Sector – Irish Horse Board, and
- Provision of Studbook services – Horse Sport Ireland (3 lots).
I am satisfied that the procurement processes for each of the tenders listed were carried out by my Department in accordance with National and EU Procurement Guidelines, including with regard to the management of potential conflict of interests. I am also satisfied that the tender evaluation teams were suitably qualified to carry out their work.
The recruitment of staff is a matter for the Board and the CEO of the organisation named.
