Seán Fleming (Laois, Fianna Fail)
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2055. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality to supply information in relation to a tender document notification (details supplied); to outline the original estimate provided by his Department for this infrastructure project; the estimated final tender approved for this project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42363/25]

Jim O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay South, Fianna Fail)
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I am advised that the recent procurement process and awarding of the subsequent contract for the Provision of Licensing and Operational Support ICT Systems and Related Services on behalf of the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI) was conducted in line with all national and EU procurement rules. These rules promote an open, competitive, and non-discriminatory tendering regime which delivers value for money for the taxpayer.

My Department, on behalf of the GRAI, published a tender competition in mid-2023. An original estimated budget of €25m was used in the Pre-Qualification Questionnaire (PQQ) notice issued on eTenders and was informed by research into similar projects undertaken in other jurisdictions.

The Tender Evaluation Team established for the procurement process included significant ICT experience internally, together with four independent external panel members, each with extensive experience in large ICT procurement projects.

A comprehensive competitive dialogue tendering process concluded in October 2024 and a preferred bidder was identified. I am advised that as the competitive dialogues drew to a conclusion, the indicative pricing received from the majority of participants was a reduction from the original budgeted estimate of €25m (ex VAT). This is in line with revised requirements, and all vendors understood these requirements, with full clarification responses provided as appropriate.

The procurement process concluded with the signing of the Contract on 5 February 2025. The process was subject to the usual in-depth peer review and approval process, which included a detailed examination of tendered prices in line with public procurement rules. The contract was ultimately awarded on the basis of the most economically advantageous tender.

I am advised that the total approved budget arising from the tender competition is €9,677,173, including VAT.

The GRAI responded to all queries from unsuccessful bidders with opportunities, as required, provided for engagement as the process concluded.