Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

The Deputy makes a fair point. When there are open public procurement rules in all countries, there will be occasions where non-nationals in the various jurisdictions obtain work. That is the case in a range of areas. I do not have the exact detail to hand on that but I accept the point the Deputy has made. In regard to Irish companies who are successful elsewhere but find themselves unable to be successful at home, that is a concern we all share. As I said, direct contact with the national procurement unit is advised and promoted so that businesses will have a clear view of the situation and how their tendering applications can be improved.

It should be borne in mind that larger countries tender to a far greater extent for goods and services than is the case here. It may be the case that some Irish companies are winning tenders abroad because there are a greater number of outlets and opportunities and the number of contracts are perhaps more varied and more suitable. However, I take the Deputy's point. I too am aware of companies that are doing business abroad but have not been successful in doing similar business at home. That is a matter of disappointment and concern. For any business seeking business abroad, the first question asked of its representatives is what it is getting at home for its service or goods. A company that is not getting the business at home is presumably at a disadvantage when its representatives go to the United States or wherever to drum up business. The purpose of the establishment of the national procurement unit is to facilitate businesses to the greatest extent possible, and consistent with legal requirements, to tender for work. Public sector work is increasingly important in the context of decreased private sector activity.

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