Caít Keane (Fine Gael)

I agree with Senator Mullins that the issue of Syria should be debated in the House. It is being neglected and we must consider what we can do, if anything, to help the people there. The laying of mines on the route between Syria and Turkey that is being used by the fleeing refugees is deplorable. We should condemn it.

The issue I wish to raise is public procurement. Members have spoken about the new schools, Irish builders and so forth. Naturally, the Government must seek best value. We are anxious to encourage North-South co-operation and so forth but we are also anxious to ensure there are jobs for people in this country as well. The Minister of State, Deputy Brian Hayes, recently made an announcement on foot of "The Business" programme, in which George Lee pointed out that a meat factory in Meath had lost a contract through public procurement for the sake of €6,000. The factory said it would create eight extra jobs but the Government could not take that into consideration when evaluating value for money. The Minister of State went to Europe about it. Perhaps he would come to the House to debate public procurement. The Minister of State has negotiated with Europe and Ireland can now take into account the provision of jobs when evaluating value for money in contracts. I would like the Minister of State, Deputy Hayes, to make a statement on it in the House.