John Perry (Sligo-North Leitrim, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

On procurement, last week we had a meeting with Mr. Vincent Campbell. We have also met Mr. Quinn.

We had a discussion about how best to deal with this through collaboration and ensure smaller companies can avail of major opportunities in the procurement sector. There is a demand to ensure small companies can be included in that very essential process. That is very much the Government's current task. I assure the Deputy we will provide an update and we look forward to reading the report next week. Procurement must involve smaller companies submitting joint bids, and such a process is now being examined. Procurement is about getting the best value for money, but it must equally bring quality. There is ongoing discussion with the Office of Government Procurement on the best way to proceed, and I will update the Deputy when that is concluded.

See this speech in context