Michael Noonan (Limerick City, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Again, I compliment Deputy Murphy on introducing the Bill to the House. In principle, I agree with the provision of more information to members of the public, as does everyone who contributed to the debate this morning. I see what the Deputy is trying to achieve and I think it is laudable that further advances be made.

I also note the progress being made by my colleague, the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, in this area. In my opening speech, I listed five major initiatives he has undertaken to provide additional information to members of the public and I know he is continuing on that path.

The issue of public procurement was raised during the debate. Deputies may not be aware that a radical new consolidation and integrated approach to public procurement, including the establishment of a national procurement office headed by a chief procurement officer, has been agreed by the Government. This planned integration of public procurement policy, strategy and operations and much greater level of centralisation represents a major strategic repositioning of public procurement and will lead to significant increases in both efficiency and effectiveness. I understand the concerns expressed by Deputies at what happened on occasion in this area in the past.

In due course, the Bill will go to the Select Committee on Finance, Public Expenditure and Reform. That will be extremely valuable in examining the practical constraints and identifying the possible unintended consequences of the legislation. It will also provide an opportunity to advance the principle of the Bill further and to ensure that we are right up there with other parliaments in providing the public with the kind of information they now expect.

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