Mr. David O'Brien:

Of course. The derogation process is set out under a circular. With regard to public works contracts, when the capital works management framework was introduced, it was mandatory, so it is a default position that one must use and the suite of contracts is published there. When these were published, provision was made for bodies whose project parameters did not fit within the delivery mechanisms, typically for a lump-sum contract. In addition, there is an early contractor involvement form of contract which is published under the capital works management framework and which also requires Government contracts approval if one is going to use it. That is how we became involved in the process. We regularly advise public bodies - members of the GCCC - on these issues.