Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

There is no committee in place. Guidelines were established which set out a procedure that must be followed when a particular set of circumstances arise, that is, a proposed consultancy or any proposed contract for services comprising a significant element of direct service to a Minister, particularly in the PR or communications area, or a suggestion by a Minister of the name of a person or enterprise that might be suitable. In such circumstances the Secretary General of the Department concerned must notify the Secretary General to the Government. Having inquired about any aspects he or she considers relevant, the Secretary General to the Government will then make a recommendation to me as to whether any special conditions should be observed in the procurement process. It is in those specific instances that the procedure is triggered.

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