Mr. David Gunning:

I remember being here when I believe it was Deputy Lahart who asked me what my private sector background would bring to this issue. The big learning point from the private sector building large buildings, whether it is Intel building a new plant or some of these new pharma plants, is that if you do not perform as a supplier or construction partner with one of these companies in the private sector you do not get to bid on the next project. It is accepted in the private sector that your performance is your dance ticket and opening card for the next project. The State does not operate in this way. I am not a procurement expert but I believe this is due to EU procurement rules which preclude this at present. I read in the newspapers about the Minister's initiative to try to get to the point where the past performance of contractors is considered with regard to selecting contractors for future State work. There is absolutely merit in this approach.