Ms Clare McGrath:

In regard to the standard form of contracts for supplies I will take that point back to the National Procurement Service and raise it with the Government contracts committee. A great deal of effort has gone into arriving at the point where something is legally compliant and there can be certainty. I take Deputy Lawlor's point concerning the expense and the difficulties that arise. I meant to say in response to Deputy Lyons and Deputy Tóibín's question that the Minister of State, Deputy Brian Hayes, is exercised in regard to the amendments to the directives and what is being considered to ensure that social clauses are included. He has responsibility for the Office of Public Works but this issue is being dealt with by the Minister of State at the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform.

On the issue of EU advertising. Suppliers and buyers can register their advertisements on the eTenders website. The suppliers who register on the website can be from anywhere. The EU tenders website does not necessarily comply with EU procurement rules. It is a website that allows and facilitates access by businesses to competitions.