Alan Kelly (Tipperary North, Labour) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Senators for appreciating the fact that I only inherited responsibility for this matter in recent days. I do not know who tendered for the contract and neither would it be appropriate for me to know. I am also not aware whether the groups in question submitted tenders, either individually or as part of consortia. The Senators have identified an issue with specific women's groups which I will bring to the attention of the officials in my Department in order that they might investigate the position further. The process must be completed on the basis of the criteria laid down. I will examine the matter further, but I must see the process through in the first instance. We will see what the outcome is. If, on the basis of that outcome, there is a need to revisit the matter, we may possibly be able to do so.