Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I am sure the Deputies are aware that the financial practices and procedures at the Garda College in Templemore were the subject of public controversy last year and were examined in great detail by the Committee of Public Accounts. The Government has no direct role in the management of the finances of the Garda College. The Garda Commissioner is the Accounting Officer for the organisation. The Garda Vote is subject to audit by the Comptroller and Auditor General and the Committee of Public Accounts. They have taken a particularly active approach in examining matters concerning the Garda College.

I am advised the Garda College in Templemore previously had an historic practice, as the Deputy outlined, of purchasing food from local businesses. Following the public controversy last year, I understand the Committee of Public Accounts was particularly concerned the college had directly engaged local suppliers in the community rather than following correct procurement procedures. I am informed that a tendering process in accordance with the public procurement rules is now almost complete. Successful tenderers have been notified and the outcome of the tendering process is subject to a two-week cooling off period.

I can understand the frustrations of the local businesses concerned. The communications between the Garda College and those suppliers, who may not have been successful through this tendering process, sounds like it could have been much better. However, it is important to note the controversy we have been through in respect of procurement procedures in Templemore and how money was allocated and spent. The Garda needs to lead by example in these things. That is why there is now strict adherence to the procurement rules in respect of how contracts are assigned. I regret that has had a negative consequence for many local businesses. However, given the history of this over the last six to eight months, it is understandable how it has developed the way it has.

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