Maureen O'Sullivan (Dublin Central, Independent)
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Question 375: To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will report on the arrangement, structures and review processes in place in An Garda Síochána to ensure that value for money is achieved in all areas of Garda procurement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25651/11]

Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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I am informed by the Garda authorities that An Garda Síochána adopts a strategic approach to the procurement of goods and services consistent with its Procurement Strategy 2011 - 2012 policy document. The key goals of the strategy are;

o The development of a procurement planning framework

o Maximising the opportunities for entering formalised contracting arrangements

o Participating in wider public sector procurement initiatives

o Developing procurement staff capacity and skills

o Maximising the opportunity to develop and advance e-procurement initiatives.

The Procurement Section in Garda Headquarters is responsible for procurement of high value/high risk goods and services while local Divisional Procurement Committees are responsible for the procurement of other services such as cleaning, towing and waste management. Furthermore, The Garda Síochána purchases goods and services (e.g. furniture, stationary office equipment, fuel, vehicles and other goods and services) from contracts put in place by the National Procurement Service. The Garda Síochána also participates in joint procurement initiatives with other public bodies e.g. for gas and electricity and maximises the use of the Government e-tenders website to advertise for goods and services.

Garda procurement guidelines and tender documentation ensure a consistent approach to procurement and maximise opportunities for small and medium enterprises to bid for goods and services. The Garda authorities also work closely with officials of my Department and the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform to ensure their approach is consistent with public procurement guidelines and achieves value for money.