Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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101. To ask the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the specific issues to which his attention has been drawn to which indicate a lack of compliance with the criteria set down by his Department in terms of procurement and reform which may negatively or otherwise impact on the economic future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6226/19]

Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael)
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Public Procurement is governed by EU legislation and National rules and guidelines. The aim of these rules is to promote an open, competitive and non-discriminatory public procurement regime which delivers best value for money.

The Office of Government Procurement (OGP) has responsibility for developing and setting out the overarching policy framework for public procurement in Ireland. This framework enables a more consistent approach to public procurement across the public sector by setting out the procurement procedures to be followed by public bodies.

The OGP supports compliance by providing procurement solutions, advice, guidance and systems for public bodies, promoting good practice and proactive engagement with our sourcing partners in the Health, Education, Defence and Local Government Sectors through the Procurement Executive. Furthermore, the OGP's Key Account Managers are in regular contact with Procurement Officers in Government departments and public bodies to assist, support and remind them of their obligations in relation to public procurement.

However, it is should be noted that while the policy framework and associated guidelines facilitate compliance with public procurement rules, it is the responsibility of each contracting authority to ensure they adhere to these rules.

Public procurement practices are also subject to audit and scrutiny under the Comptroller and Auditor General and Local Government Reform Acts.