Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 202: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will make a statement on the receipt of tenders on 21 June 2006 for the supply of 11,000 anti stab ballistic vests; and when he expects an order to be placed for same. [25225/06]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
Link to this: Individually | In context

An RFT for the supply of an additional 11,000 Anti Stab Ballistics Vests (and without prejudice or commitment to purchase a further quantity of no more than 4,000 over the duration of the contract) was published in the EU Journal and the Government's tendering website on 8th May, 2006 with a closing date for receipt of tenders of 21st June, 2006. A total of eleven companies submitted tenders which are currently being evaluated. It is anticipated that the order for the supply of these vests will be placed in early August 2006.

These lightweight and flexible vests will be worn generally as an outer garment but can be concealed under a jacket/coat and will be navy blue in colour. They will have to conform to the HOSDB HG1A/KR1 protection standards for ballistic and anti-stab resistance with an option to upgrade these vests to HG2/KR2 standard. The estimated value of the contract is approximately €3m.

In addition to the above an RFT for the supply and delivery of 1,500 Ballistic Vests with anti-stab properties and without prejudice or commitment to purchase a further quantity of no more than 600 over the duration of the contract, was published in the EU Journal and the Government's tendering website on 6th April, 2006 with a closing date for receipt of tenders of 24th May, 2006. A total of 9 companies submitted valid tenders. These tender proposals are currently being evaluated by An Garda Síochána. The vests will have to conform to the HOSDB HG1/KR1+SP1 protection standards for ballistic and anti-stab resistance. It is anticipated that the order for the supply of these vests will be placed shortly. The estimated value of this contract is approximately €750,000.