Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputy for his complimentary observations about the new office of Government procurement. He has met Mr. Paul Quinn, who attended the committee last week. His value is obvious.

A number of the new appointments that I have made in my Department are on a contract basis and the people in question have specific skill sets. This is a good model for public sector recruitment.

I will bear in mind the Deputy's comments on our common objective of maximising procurement within the State and determine whether there are mechanisms. I will speak with Mr. Quinn about this matter.

The issue of procurement in general is one on which we must have a view and must debate at Cabinet and committee levels. We must get the best possible value for all goods and services that the State and all of its agencies procure.

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