Michael McGrath (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

91. To ask the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the amount paid out to named consultants and consultancy firms in 2015 to date, in tabular form; the description of the work provided; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42274/15]

Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

In response to the Deputy's question the table below outlines the amount paid to consultancy firms and the description of the work provided to my Department since 1 January 2015. 

In the course of their normal business activity the Office of Public Works engages technical consultants on many of its projects, primarily architectural and engineering.  The costs of these consultants would be included in the overall project cost and are not included here. 

My Department ensures that every effort is made to limit the use of consultants where possible.  All contracts are negotiated with a view to achieving best value for money and are kept under review to ensure this is maintained.  When the use of consultants is unavoidable the staff in my Department ensure appropriate skills transfer to reduce the requirement for consultants going forward.