Mr. Liam Woods:

I can revert to the committee with a response on the individual consultant post. I am not aware of the particular post.

Clearly, PPE is a matter of national concern and priority as is the desire that we would have some manufacturing base. While it is not specifically the role of the HSE, I understand that in the context of our industrial development promotion business in the country, it would make a great deal of sense to have domestic supply. We would certainly be interested in that. We do not, as an organisation, engage directly in funding or sponsoring commercial entities, but we have a strong interest in domestic supply in light of our recent history in accessing PPE. I understand dialogue is taking place in other areas nationally. The idea is to look at prioritising that as an area for development. Our procurement function, which has worked with domestic and international suppliers, is keen and will be part of that dialogue. I am not aware of the individual company but I will certainly refer the matter to our procurement people. I imagine they are aware of this.