Patrick O'Donovan (Limerick, Fine Gael)
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Question 509: To ask the Minister for Defence if complaints have been received by him regarding public works potentially being carried out by contractors operating in the black economy; the number of complaints that were upheld; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27374/11]

Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
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No complaints of that nature have been received by the Department of Defence. The Department operates a competitive tendering process, in accordance with the public sector "Capital Works Management Framework". The process is designed to realise greater cost certainty, better value for money and more efficient project delivery. As part of this process, prior to a contract being placed, various criteria must be fulfilled by prospective tenderers, including provision of audited accounts, evidence of compliance with the Revenue Commissioners, Security Clearance, etc. Furthermore, payments to contractors are subject to a valid tax clearance certificate being in place, providing continued assurance that contracts for public works are carried out by tax compliant contractors.