Tom Parlon (Laois-Offaly, Progressive Democrats)

The matter to which the Deputy refers is currently being examined independently on behalf of the Office of Public Works. The purpose of the examination is to establish, in so far as possible, the facts in the matter. I expect the results of the examination to be available shortly.

It is not possible at this stage nor would it be correct for me to comment on the specifics of the situation pending the completion of the examination. However, I wish to clarify one point. The figure of €800,000 refers to the total value of payments to the company in question over a nine year period from 1995 to date. During this period the OPW kept under regular review the prices being charged in the market for the services in question and was satisfied that it was availing of the most cost-effective service.

It is obviously a matter of concern that any suggestion of impropriety should attach to the award of public contracts by the OPW or by any Department or agency. The OPW, through the activities of its various business units, including the Government Supplies Agency, plays a significant role in the procurement of property, construction and other goods and services on behalf of Departments and agencies. Due to the central role it plays in the procurement area, the OPW has consistently strived to ensure that it conforms to the highest possible standards of fairness, transparency, integrity and value in awarding public contracts. I believe it achieves this objective across the broad range of its services.

It is the general policy of the OPW that all procurement activity in the organisation abides by the principles and rules set out in the national public procurement guidelines issued by the Department of Finance and in the EU public procurement directives. In essence, this means that contracts for the supply of goods and services should be awarded by way of competitive tender where practicable. There is also an obligation on all personnel involved in the tendering process to ensure that any potential conflict of interest in that process is disclosed in good time.

When the results of the independent examination become available, I will consider them carefully and take whatever steps I consider appropriate in the circumstances. My sole objective will be to ensure that the integrity of the procurement process in the OPW is maintained to its current high standards and strengthened where necessary.

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