Appendix 1
Minutes of Proceedings
Wednesday, 1 October 2008
Metro Building. 6-9 Donegal Square South, Belfast
Present: Mitchel McLaughlin MLA (Chairperson)
Simon Hamilton MLA (Deputy Chairperson)
Dr Stephen Farry MLA
Fra McCann MLA
Jennifer McCann MLA
Adrian McQuillan MLA
Declan O’Loan MLA
Ian Paisley Jnr MLA
Dawn Purvis MLA
Peter Weir MLA
In Attendance: Shane McAteer (Assembly Clerk)
Colin Jones (Assistant Assembly Clerk)
Paula Sandford (Clerical Supervisor)
Chris McCreery (Clerical Officer)
Apologies: David McNarry MLA
10.12 am The meeting commenced in open session.
6. Briefing from DFP on Procurement Awareness
The Committee was briefed by Des Armstrong, Director, Central Procurement Directorate, DFP, Aileen Edmund, Central Procurement Directorate, DFP and Ruth Fee, University of Ulster.
7. Briefing on Public Sector Procurement and Social Economy Provision
The Committee was briefed by Paul Roberts, Chief Executive, Ashton Community Trust and Colin Finnegan, Business Development Director, Capita Group Sales.
Agreed: that information will be requested from DFP on the inclusion of social clauses in contacts awarded by the public sector.
Wednesday, 5 November 2008
Room 152, Parliament Buildings
Present: Mitchel McLaughlin MLA (Chairperson)
Simon Hamilton MLA (Deputy Chairperson)
Dr Stephen Farry MLA
Fra McCann MLA
David McNarry MLA
Adrian McQuillan MLA
Declan O’Loan MLA
Ian Paisley Jnr MLA
Peter Weir MLA
In Attendance: Shane McAteer (Assembly Clerk)
Colin Jones (Assistant Assembly Clerk)
Paula Sandford (Clerical Supervisor)
Chris McCreery (Clerical Officer)
Apologies: Jennifer McCann MLA
10.03 am The meeting commenced in open session.
3. Matters Arising
Members noted that, as agreed at the last meeting, further information had been requested from DFP on the legal challenges relating to government procurement and the outcomes and costs on an individual case basis and that DFP hoped to send a response by 7 November.
Members noted that Edward Quigg, a local procurement specialist, will brief the Committee on 26 November.
The Committee considered a paper proposing a terms of reference for its consideration of public procurement and a list of representative organisations from whom the Committee could seek evidence.
Agreed: that the terms of reference will be updated to include consideration of reasons for delays in moving the process forward.
Agreed: that the Federation of Small Businesses will be invited to give oral evidence on 26 November and that the remaining organisations identified will be contacted to determine whether they would be prepared to send a written submission and subsequently give oral evidence.
Wednesday, 12 November 2008
Room 152, Parliament Buildings
Present: Mitchel McLaughlin MLA (Chairperson)
Simon Hamilton MLA (Deputy Chairperson)
Dr Stephen Farry MLA
Fra McCann MLA
Jennifer McCann MLA
David McNarry MLA
Declan O’Loan MLA
Ian Paisley Jnr MLA
Dawn Purvis MLA
Peter Weir MLA
In Attendance: Shane McAteer (Assembly Clerk)
Colin Jones (Assistant Assembly Clerk)
Vivien Ireland (Assistant Assembly Clerk)
Paula Sandford (Clerical Supervisor)
Chris McCreery (Clerical Officer)
Apologies: None.
10.03 am The meeting commenced in open session.
4. Matters Arising
Members considered a second draft terms of reference for the Committee scrutiny of public procurement practice.
Agreed: that further amendments will be made to the draft terms of reference for further consideration at next week’s meeting. It was also agreed that, once the terms of reference is approved by the Committee, it will be copied to the Federation of Small Businesses and Edward Quigg for information, as they are due to give evidence to the Committee on 26 November.
Agreed: that the Social Economy Network will be added to the list of key stakeholders to be consulted as part of the scrutiny of public procurement.
Agreed: to commission a research paper on public procurement, which will help inform the Committee’s initial deliberations.
Agreed: that the Committee’s approach to its scrutiny of public procurement will be to invite written evidence from key stakeholders and then it will decide on which organisations to invite for oral evidence. It also agreed that, given the cross-cutting nature of public procurement, it will seek the views of the other statutory committees on the issues covered in the final terms of reference.
Wednesday, 19 November 2008
Room 152, Parliament Buildings
Present: Mitchel McLaughlin MLA (Chairperson)
Simon Hamilton MLA (Deputy Chairperson)
Dr Stephen Farry MLA
Fra McCann MLA
Jennifer McCann MLA
David McNarry MLA
Adrian McQuillan MLA
Declan O’Loan MLA
Ian Paisley Jnr MLA
Dawn Purvis MLA
In Attendance: Shane McAteer (Assembly Clerk)
Colin Jones (Assistant Assembly Clerk)
Vivien Ireland (Assistant Assembly Clerk)
Paula Sandford (Clerical Supervisor)
Chris McCreery (Clerical Officer)
Apologies: Peter Weir MLA.
10.08 am The meeting commenced in open session.
8. 3rd Draft Terms of Reference for Scrutiny of Public Procurement Practice in Northern Ireland
Members considered and agreed an amended terms of reference for the Committee’s Inquiry into Public Procurement Practice in Northern Ireland.
Members noted that, as agreed last week, the agreed terms of reference will be copied to the Federation of Small Businesses and Edward Quigg in preparation for their evidence sessions next week and will be included with an invitation to make a written submission to be sent to key stakeholders.
Wednesday, 26 November 2008
Room 152, Parliament Buildings
Present: Mitchel McLaughlin MLA (Chairperson)
Simon Hamilton MLA (Deputy Chairperson)
Dr Stephen Farry MLA
Jennifer McCann MLA
David McNarry MLA
Adrian McQuillan MLA
Declan O’Loan MLA
Dawn Purvis MLA
Peter Weir MLA
In Attendance: Shane McAteer (Assembly Clerk)
Colin Jones (Assistant Assembly Clerk)
Vivien Ireland (Assistant Assembly Clerk)
Paula Sandford (Clerical Supervisor)
Apologies: Fra McCann MLA
Ian Paisley Jnr MLA
10.10 am The meeting commenced in open session.
5. Committee Inquiry into Public Procurement: Assembly Research
The Committee considered a briefing paper by Assembly Research on Public Procurement and Small and Medium Enterprises.
Members considered a draft public notice for the Committee’s Inquiry into Public Procurement Policy and Practice in Northern Ireland.
Agreed: that the public notice is placed in the appropriate newspapers in line with normal procedures.
9. Committee Inquiry into Public Procurement: Evidence from Quigg Golden Contract Consultants
The Committee took evidence from Edward Quigg and James Golden, Directors of Quigg Golden Contract Consultants; and Caroline Eccles, Contracts and Arbitration Manager of Quigg Golden Contract Consultants. The session was recorded by Hansard.
12.10 pm Dr Farry left the meeting.
12.17 pm Mr Weir left the meeting.
12.24 pm Mr Weir returned to the meeting.
12.24 pm Mr McQuillan left the meeting.
12.29 pm Mr O’Loan left the meeting.
12.47 pm Ms McCann left the meeting.
12.51 pm Ms McCann returned to the meeting.
12.52 pm Mr Hamilton left the meeting.
12.52 pm Mr McQuillan returned to the meeting.
1.00 pm Mr Hamilton returned to the meeting.
Agreed: that the representatives of Quigg Golden Contract Consultants will be invited back at a later date in the Inquiry, to provide additional evidence on issues that emerge from the Committee’s consultation with stakeholders.
Agreed: that any further issues which the Committee wishes to raise in the meantime would be forwarded to the representatives of Quigg Golden Contract Consultants for a written response.
10. Committee Inquiry into Public Procurement: Evidence from Federation of Small Businesses (FSB)
The Committee took evidence from Wilfred Mitchell, Policy Chairman, FSB; George Dorrian, Policy Officer, FSB and Jonathan Walmsley, Public Affairs Officer, FSB. The session was recorded by Hansard.
1.07 am Mr McNarry left the meeting.
1.18 pm Mr McNarry returned to the meeting.
1.18 pm Mr Weir left the meeting.
1.21 pm Mr Weir returned to the meeting.
1.30 pm Mr McQuillan left the meeting.
Agreed: that the FSB will be afforded the opportunity to provide a further written submission to the Committee’s Inquiry as part of the forthcoming consultation with stakeholders.
Agreed: that any further issues which the Committee wished to raise in the meantime would be forwarded to the representatives of FSB for a written response.
Wednesday, 11 February 2009
Room 152, Parliament Buildings
Present: Simon Hamilton MLA (Deputy Chairperson)
Dr Stephen Farry MLA
Fra McCann MLA
Jennifer McCann MLA
David McNarry MLA
Adrian McQuillan MLA
Declan O’Loan MLA
Ian Paisley Jnr MLA
Dawn Purvis MLA
In Attendance: Shane McAteer (Assembly Clerk)
Vivien Ireland (Assistant Assembly Clerk)
Colin Jones (Assistant Assembly Clerk)
Paula Sandford (Clerical Supervisor)
Chris McCreery (Clerical Officer)
Apologies: Mitchel McLaughlin MLA (Chairperson)
Peter Weir MLA
10.11 am The meeting commenced in open session.
4 Public Procurement Policy and Practice in Northern Ireland: Evidence from Carson McDowell Solicitors
The Committee took evidence from the following consultants from Carson McDowell Solicitors: Declan Magee, Public Procurement Consultant and Catherine Thompson, Public Procurement Consultant. The session was recorded by Hansard.
Members noted a written submission received from the Drilling and Pumping Supplies Limited on the Committee Inquiry into Public Procurement Policy and Practice in NI.
Members were updated on the progress with the Committee’s Inquiry and were advised that a summary of the issues raised in the written evidence will be prepared by the Committee Secretariat following receipt of all submissions.
11.25 am Mr McCann left the meeting.
11.26 am Mr McCann returned to the meeting.
11.27 am Mr McNarry left the meeting.
Wednesday, 18 March 2009
Room 152, Parliament Buildings
Present: Mitchel McLaughlin MLA (Chairperson)
Simon Hamilton MLA (Deputy Chairperson)
Fra McCann MLA
David McNarry MLA
Adrian McQuillan MLA
Declan O’Loan MLA
Peter Weir MLA
In Attendance: Shane McAteer (Assembly Clerk)
Vivien Ireland (Assistant Assembly Clerk)
David McKee (Clerical Supervisor)
Heather Galbraith (Clerical Officer)
Chris McCreery (Clerical Officer)
Apologies: Dr Stephen Farry MLA
Jennifer McCann MLA
Ian Paisley Jnr MLA
Dawn Purvis MLA
10.10 am The meeting commenced in open session.
5 Lessons Learned from Legal Challenges to Public Procurement Exercises: Evidence from DFP
The Committee took evidence from the following DFP officials: Des Armstrong, Director, Central Procurement Directorate; Brian Doherty, Deputy Head, Departmental Solicitors Office and Brendan O’Neill, Policy Advisor, Central Procurement Directorate. The session was recorded by Hansard.
11.07 am Mr Hamilton left the meeting.
11.15 am Mr Hamilton returned to the meeting.
11.37 am Mr McCann left the meeting.
11.39 am Mr McCann returned to the meeting.
11.40 am Mr Hamilton left the meeting.
11.52 am Mr Weir joined the meeting.
11.52 am Mr McNarry left the meeting.
11.59 am Mr Hamilton returned to the meeting.
12.00 pm Mr McNarry returned to the meeting.
12.00 pm Mr Weir left the meeting.
12.02 pm Mr Weir returned to the meeting.
12.06 pm Mr O’Loan left the meeting.
12.07 pm Mr O’Loan returned to the meeting.
Agreed: that the DFP officials will provide further information to the Committee as requested during the briefing session.
Wednesday, 22 April 2009
Room 152, Parliament Buildings
Present: Mitchel McLaughlin MLA (Chairperson)
Simon Hamilton MLA (Deputy Chairperson)
Dr Stephen Farry MLA
Fra McCann MLA
Jennifer McCann MLA
Adrian McQuillan MLA
Declan O’Loan MLA
Ian Paisley Jnr MLA
Dawn Purvis MLA
Peter Weir MLA
In Attendance: Shane McAteer (Assembly Clerk)
Vivien Ireland (Assistant Assembly Clerk)
Colin Jones (Assistant Assembly Clerk)
David McKee (Clerical Supervisor)
Chris McCreery (Clerical Officer)
Dr Robert Barry (Assembly Research)
Apologies: David McNarry MLA
10.08 am The meeting commenced in open session.
7. Committee Inquiry into Public Procurement Practice in Northern Ireland
The Committee was briefed by Assembly Research on a research paper ‘Public Procurement and the Social Economy.’
11.22 am Mr McCann left the meeting.
11.23 am Mr Paisley left the meeting.
Agreed: that the Committee will consider the scope for also examining local government procurement as part of its current Inquiry.
Members considered a news release from DFP on the Procurement Task Group.
Agreed: that the Committee will request a briefing on the report from the Construction Industry Forum for Northern Ireland Procurement Task Group.
Wednesday, 29 April 2009
Room 152, Parliament Buildings
Present: Mitchel McLaughlin MLA (Chairperson)
Simon Hamilton MLA (Deputy Chairperson)
Dr Stephen Farry MLA
Fra McCann MLA
Jennifer McCann MLA
David McNarry MLA
Adrian McQuillan MLA
Declan O’Loan MLA
Ian Paisley Jnr MLA
Dawn Purvis MLA
Peter Weir MLA
In Attendance: Shane McAteer (Assembly Clerk)
Vivien Ireland (Assistant Assembly Clerk)
Colin Jones (Assistant Assembly Clerk)
David McKee (Clerical Supervisor)
Chris McCreery (Clerical Officer)
Apologies: None
5. Interim Report from the Construction Industry Forum for Northern Ireland Procurement Task Group: Evidence from DFP
The Committee took evidence from Des Armstrong and Stewart Heaney from DFP’s Central Procurement Directorate. The session was recorded by Hansard.
11.46 am Mr Paisley left the meeting.
11.47 am Dr Farry joined the meeting.
Agreed: that the DFP officials will provide further information as requested by the Committee during the evidence session and will update the Committee on progress on implementing the Report’s recommendations in October 2009.
7. Committee Inquiry into Public Procurement Practice in Northern Ireland: Consideration of Written Submissions and Scheduling of Oral Evidence Sessions
The Committee noted the thirty three written submissions received, and information on those organisations which had indicated that they would be prepared to give oral evidence. Members noted that the Committee’s work programme to summer recess could facilitate approximately ten oral evidence sessions.
Agreed: that the Committee will consider the forthcoming oral evidence before deciding whether to invite further evidence from the legal sector.
Agreed: that a further paper on potential oral evidence sessions will be considered at next week’s meeting.
12.24 pm Mr O’Loan left the meeting.
12.25 pm Ms Purvis left the meeting.
Members noted that the Committee’s bid for commissioned research to supplement the inquiry had been successful. Consideration was given to a secretariat paper setting out advice from the Assembly’s Head of Procurement on sourcing the commissioned research.
Agreed: that, on the basis of the advice received, appropriate academic institutions will be approached to carry out the research and that a specification of requirements will be drawn up for the Committee’s consideration.
Agreed: that an audit of Departmental action to promote social and environmental clauses in procurement contacts will be conducted as part of the research commissioned by the Committee.
12.32 pm Mr McCann left the meeting.
Wednesday, 6 May 2009
Room 152, Parliament Buildings
Present: Simon Hamilton MLA (Deputy Chairperson)
Dr Stephen Farry MLA
Fra McCann MLA
David McNarry MLA
Adrian McQuillan MLA
Declan O’Loan MLA
Ian Paisley Jnr MLA
Peter Weir MLA
In Attendance: Shane McAteer (Assembly Clerk)
Vivien Ireland (Assistant Assembly Clerk)
Colin Jones (Assistant Assembly Clerk)
David McKee (Clerical Supervisor)
Chris McCreery (Clerical Officer)
Apologies: Mitchel McLaughlin MLA (Chairperson)
Jennifer McCann MLA
Dawn Purvis MLA
10.04 am The meeting commenced in open session.
5. European Public Procurement Seminar on Sustainable Procurement: Assembly Research Briefing
The Committee received a briefing from Assembly Research in relation to the integration of social issues in public procurement.
11.15 am Dr Farry left the meeting.
11.16 am Mr Weir joined the meeting.
Agreed: that clarification will be obtained from DFP on how social clauses on apprenticeships link the number and type of apprenticeships required to industry forecasts of need. It was also agreed to request DFP to provide a background briefing on Northern Ireland case law on social /environmental clauses.
6. Committee Inquiry into Public Procurement Policy and Practice in Northern Ireland: Scheduling of Oral Evidence Sessions
Members examined the list of organisations that were willing to give oral evidence to the Committee inquiry. The Committee was advised that the Social Economy Network had also made a written submission and was willing to give oral evidence.
11.19 am Mr Paisley Jnr left the meeting.
Agreed: that an evidence session with the Central Procurement Directorate officials will be scheduled into the Committee work programme as soon as possible. It was also agreed that the following organisations will be called first to give oral evidence: Confederation of British Industry, Construction Industry Group for Northern Ireland, Bryson Charitable Group, Chartered Institute for Purchasing and Supply, Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors and Martin & Hamilton Ltd. The Committee agreed that further evidence sessions will be considered in September.
Agreed: that the secretariat will consider the practicalities of members visiting Bryson House and holding a Committee meeting at the venue.
11.25 am Mr McCann left the meeting.
Wednesday, 13 May 2009
Room 152, Parliament Buildings
Present: Mitchel McLaughlin MLA (Chairperson)
Simon Hamilton MLA (Deputy Chairperson)
Dr Stephen Farry MLA
Jennifer McCann MLA
David McNarry MLA
Declan O’Loan MLA
Ian Paisley Jnr MLA
Dawn Purvis MLA
Peter Weir MLA
In Attendance: Shane McAteer (Assembly Clerk)
Vivien Ireland (Assistant Assembly Clerk)
Colin Jones (Assistant Assembly Clerk)
David McKee (Clerical Supervisor)
Chris McCreery (Clerical Officer)
Apologies: Fra McCann MLA
Adrian McQuillan MLA
10.01 am The meeting commenced in open session.
5. Committee Inquiry into Public Procurement Practice in Northern Ireland: Evidence from Ulster Community Investment Trust (UCIT)
The Committee took evidence from the following UCIT officials: Brian Howe, Chief Executive and Mark Dougan, Research, Policy and Fundraising Officer. The session was recorded by Hansard.
12.01 pm Dr Farry left the meeting.
Agreed: that the UCIT officials will provide further information as requested by the Committee during the evidence session.
Agreed: that a written update will be requested from DFP on progress on taking forward the distribution of monies in Northern Ireland under the new Dormant Accounts legislation.
Members noted a further submission to the Committee’s Inquiry from the Social Economy Network.
Agreed: that the Social Economy Network will be invited to give oral evidence after summer recess.
Wednesday, 20 May 2009
Room 152, Parliament Buildings
Present: Mitchel McLaughlin MLA (Chairperson)
Simon Hamilton MLA (Deputy Chairperson)
Dr Stephen Farry MLA
Fra McCann MLA
David McNarry MLA
Adrian McQuillan MLA
Declan O’Loan MLA
Dawn Purvis MLA
In Attendance: Shane McAteer (Assembly Clerk)
Vivien Ireland (Assistant Assembly Clerk)
Colin Jones (Assistant Assembly Clerk)
David McKee (Clerical Supervisor)
Chris McCreery (Clerical Officer)
Apologies: Jennifer McCann MLA
10.03 am The meeting commenced in open session.
4. Committee Inquiry into Public Procurement Policy and Practice in Northern Ireland: Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) Access to Public Contracts: Evidence from DFP’s Central Procurement Directorate (CPD)
The Committee took evidence from the following CPD officials: David Carson, Director of Policy and Support Division; Roy Mitchell, Works Procurement Division and Tom Gilgunn, Strategic and Information Communication Technology Procurement. The session was recorded by Hansard.
10.59 am Mr McNarry left the meeting.
11.07 am Mr Hamilton left the meeting.
11.10 am Mr McNarry returned to the meeting.
11.14 am Dr Farry left the meeting.
11.20 am Mr Hamilton returned to the meeting.
11.23 am Ms Purvis left the meeting.
11.25 am Ms Purvis returned to the meeting.
11.31 am Mr McCann left the meeting.
11.32 am Mr McCann returned to the meeting.
Agreed: that the CPD officials will provide information on a number of issues as requested by the Committee during the evidence session.
5. Committee Inquiry into Public Procurement Practice in Northern Ireland: Evidence from Construction Industry Group Northern Ireland Professional College (CIGNI)
The Committee took evidence from the following CIGNI officials: Dr Lynda Martin, Chairperson; John Finlay, Vice-Chairperson and George Coulter, Secretary. The session was recorded by Hansard.
11.44 am Mr McCann left the meeting.
12.13 pm Mr McNarry left the meeting.
Agreed: that the Committee will write to CIGNI if it requires any further information on the issues discussed during the session.
Agreed: that the Committee will request that Assembly Research and Library Services draw up a list of ‘expert witnesses’ on public procurement for the Committee to consider in terms of inviting additional oral evidence to inform the Committee inquiry.
Agreed: to defer consideration of the agenda items on Subordinate Legislation and Correspondence until next week’s meeting.
Wednesday, 27 May 2009
Room 152, Parliament Buildings
Present: Dr Stephen Farry MLA
Fra McCann MLA
Jennifer McCann MLA
David McNarry MLA
Adrian McQuillan MLA
Declan O’Loan MLA
Dawn Purvis MLA
Peter Weir MLA
In Attendance: Shane McAteer (Assembly Clerk)
Vivien Ireland (Assistant Assembly Clerk)
Colin Jones (Assistant Assembly Clerk)
David McKee (Clerical Supervisor)
Chris McCreery (Clerical Officer)
Apologies: Mitchel McLaughlin MLA (Chairperson)
Simon Hamilton MLA (Deputy Chairperson)
Ian Paisley Jnr MLA
10.03 am The meeting commenced in open session.
4. Committee Inquiry into Public Procurement Policy and Practice in Northern Ireland: Evidence from Confederation of British Industry (CBI)
The Committee took evidence from the following witnesses: Nigel Smyth, Director, CBI; Peter Spratt, Managing Director, Anderson Spratt Group (ASG); and Mark Campbell, Senior Manager, Randox Laboratories Ltd. The session was recorded by Hansard.
Agreed: that the witnesses will provide further information as requested by the Committee during the session.
10.56 am Mr O’Loan left the meeting.
11.25 am Mr McNarry left the meeting.
Wednesday, 10 June 2009
Room 152, Parliament Buildings
Present: Mitchel McLaughlin MLA (Chairperson)
Simon Hamilton MLA (Deputy Chairperson)
Fra McCann MLA
Jennifer McCann MLA
Adrian McQuillan MLA
Declan O’Loan MLA
Ian Paisley Jnr MLA
Dawn Purvis MLA
In Attendance: Shane McAteer (Assembly Clerk)
Vivien Ireland (Assistant Assembly Clerk)
Colin Jones (Assistant Assembly Clerk)
David McKee (Clerical Supervisor)
Chris McCreery (Clerical Officer)
Apologies: Dr Stephen Farry MLA
David McNarry MLA
Peter Weir MLA
10.06 am The meeting commenced in open session.
4. Committee Inquiry into Public Procurement Policy and Practice in Northern Ireland: Evidence from Martin and Hamilton Ltd
The Committee took evidence from David Hamilton, Managing Director, Martin and Hamilton Ltd. The session was recorded by Hansard.
10.41 am Mr Paisley Jnr left the meeting.
11.03 am Ms McCann left the meeting.
Agreed: that the Committee will write to Martin and Hamilton Ltd if it requires any further information on the issues discussed during the session.
Wednesday, 17 June 2009
Room 152, Parliament Buildings
Present: Mitchel McLaughlin MLA (Chairperson)
Simon Hamilton MLA (Deputy Chairperson)
Dr Stephen Farry MLA
Fra McCann MLA
Jennifer McCann MLA
David McNarry MLA
Adrian McQuillan MLA
Declan O’Loan MLA
Dawn Purvis MLA
In Attendance: Shane McAteer (Assembly Clerk)
Vivien Ireland (Assistant Assembly Clerk)
Karen Jardine (Assistant Assembly Clerk)
Colin Jones (Assistant Assembly Clerk)
David McKee (Clerical Supervisor)
Chris McCreery (Clerical Officer)
Apologies: Ian Paisley Jnr MLA
Peter Weir MLA
10.02 am The meeting commenced in open session.
4. Committee Inquiry into Public Procurement Policy and Practice in Northern Ireland: Evidence from InterTradeIreland
The Committee took evidence from the following representatives from InterTradeIreland: Aidan Gough, Director of Strategy and Policy; and Dr Eoin Magennis, Policy Research Manager. The session was recorded by Hansard.
10.39 am Mr McQuillan left the meeting.
10.45 am Dr Farry left the meeting.
Members noted further information from both the Ulster Community Investment Trust and the Confederation of British Industry, following their recent oral evidence to the Committee.
7. Secretariat Paper on Proposed Procurement Stakeholder Conference
The Committee was informed that efforts to contract an academic institution to take forward commissioned research on the Committee’s behalf, had been unsuccessful to date. Members discussed a number of options for supplementing the oral and written evidence gathered to date as part of the Committee’s ongoing Inquiry.
Agreed: that, as an alternative to commissioning external research, a procurement stakeholder conference will be held after summer recess
Wednesday, 24 June 2009
Room 152, Parliament Buildings
Present: Mitchel McLaughlin MLA (Chairperson)
Dr Stephen Farry MLA
Fra McCann MLA
Jennifer McCann MLA
David McNarry MLA
Declan O’Loan MLA
In Attendance: Shane McAteer (Assembly Clerk)
Vivien Ireland (Assistant Assembly Clerk)
Karen Jardine (Assistant Assembly Clerk)
David McKee (Clerical Supervisor)
Chris McCreery (Clerical Officer)
Apologies: Simon Hamilton MLA (Deputy Chairperson)
Adrian McQuillan MLA
Ian Paisley Jnr MLA
Dawn Purvis MLA
Peter Weir MLA
10.04 am The meeting commenced in open session.
5. Committee Inquiry into Public Procurement Policy and Practice in Northern Ireland: Evidence from the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS)
The Committee took evidence from the following RICS representatives:Ann Stewart, Public Policy Executive; John Phelan, Head of Construction Group; and Colm Lavery, Deputy Head of Construction Group. The session was recorded by Hansard.
11.30 am Mr McNarry joined the meeting.
11.31 am Ms McCann joined the meeting.
11.47 am Mr O’Loan left the meeting.
11.51 am Mr O’Loan joined the meeting.
12.06 pm Mr McCann left the meeting.
12.11 pm Mr McCann joined the meeting.
Agreed: that the RICS representatives will provide information as requested by the Committee during the evidence session.
Agreed: that all written evidence submitted to the Committee Inquiry into Public Procurement Policy and Practice in Northern Ireland and the Official Report from this evidence session will be forwarded to DFP for comment.
Agreed: to request from DFP an assessment of progress by departments in the implementation of investment delivery plans and the implications which any slippage will have on budgets for 2009/10.
Members noted a response from the Ulster Community Investment Trust on a number of queries raised by the Committee at its meeting on 13 May 2009.
Members considered a request from the Royal Society of Ulster Architects (RSUA) to give oral evidence to the Committee’s Inquiry into Public Procurement Policy and Practice in Northern Ireland
Agreed: that RSUA will be invited to give oral evidence to the Committee’s Inquiry into Public Procurement Policy and Practice in Northern Ireland after summer recess.
12.30 pm Mr McNarry left the meeting.
Wednesday, 9 September 2009
Room 152, Parliament Buildings
Present: Jennifer McCann MLA (Chairperson)
Peter Weir MLA (Deputy Chairperson)
Mr Stephen Farry MLA
Fra McCann MLA
Mitchel McLaughlin MLA
David McNarry MLA
Declan O’Loan MLA
Dawn Purvis MLA
In Attendance: Shane McAteer (Assembly Clerk)
Kathy O’Hanlon (Assistant Assembly Clerk)
Karen Jardine (Assistant Assembly Clerk)
David McKee (Clerical Supervisor)
Christopher McNickle (Clerical Officer)
Apologies: Simon Hamilton MLA
10.00 am The meeting commenced in open session.
12. Committee Work Programme
Members were advised that the Public Procurement Stakeholder Conference will be held in the Comfort Hotel, Antrim on Wednesday 21 October. A facilitator has been appointed to provide the Committee with professional assistance in planning and managing the conference and in reporting on outcomes.
Agreed: that a working lunch will be arranged in Room 152 for immediately after the Committee meeting on 16 September, to enable the Committee to meet informally with the facilitator to discuss plans for the conference.
Wednesday, 16 September 2009
Room 152, Parliament Buildings
Present: Jennifer McCann MLA (Chairperson)
Peter Weir MLA (Deputy Chairperson)
Dr Stephen Farry MLA
Simon Hamilton MLA
Fra McCann MLA
Mitchel McLaughlin MLA
David McNarry MLA
Adrian McQuillan MLA
Declan O’Loan MLA
Ian Paisley Jr MLA
Dawn Purvis MLA
In Attendance: Shane McAteer (Assembly Clerk)
Kathy O’Hanlon (Assistant Assembly Clerk)
Karen Jardine (Assistant Assembly Clerk)
David McKee (Clerical Supervisor)
Apologies: None
10.07 am As notification had been received that the Chairperson would be late, the Deputy Chairperson took the Chair and commenced the meeting in open session.
4. Committee Inquiry into Public Procurement Policy and Practice in Northern Ireland: Evidence from Royal Society of Ulster Architects
The Committee took evidence from the following RSUA officials: Dawson Stelfox, President RSUA and Chairman of Consarc Design Group; Clyde Markwell, Chair, Professional Affairs Committee RSUA and Partner in Knox and Markwell Architects; and, Frank McCloskey, RSUA Director. The session was recorded by Hansard.
10.44 am Mr McNarry joined the meeting.
Members noted the DFP response to issues raised in the written submissions to the Inquiry and during the evidence session from the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors.
Members considered a request from the Ministerial Advisory Group for Architecture and the Built Environment for Northern Ireland (MAG) to give oral evidence on the Committee’s Inquiry.
Agreed: that the Committee will write to MAG providing a copy of the Inquiry Terms of Reference and requesting a written response that addresses the specific issues in the terms of reference; and, in particular, opportunities for greater access to procurement opportunities for the Small and Medium Enterprise and Social Economy Enterprise sectors.
The Committee noted correspondence from DFP on public procurement opportunities for SMEs.
Agreed: that the Committee will write to Central Procurement Directorate seeking further information on a number of areas as identified by Assembly Researchers and also on instances where EU regulations have not applied to a contract as the works were considered incidental to another objective.
10. Correspondence received up to 9 September 2009
The Committee noted the following correspondence:
- DFP: Response to Committee for Employment and Learning Report on the Way Forward for Apprenticeships;
Agreed: that the DFP response be forwarded to the Committee for Employment and Learning and also included in the Public Procurement Inquiry Report.
11. Arrangements for Public Procurement Stakeholder Conference
1.15 pm Mr Weir returned to the meeting.
Following a discussion on the outline proposals for the Public Procurement Stakeholder Conference, the Committee made the following decisions:
Agreed: that the conference title will be ‘Maximising the Economic and Social Benefits from Public Procurement’.
Agreed: that the date of the conference is Wednesday 21 October 2009 and that the venue is Dunsilly Hotel, Antrim (formerly Comfort Hotel).
Agreed: that the format and structure of the event will be as outlined in the briefing paper.
Agreed: that the participants already identified be invited to the conference and that members will forward suggestions for additional participants to the Clerk as soon as possible and that the list of additional participants should, as far as is possible, reflect a balance between the SME and SEE sectors.
Agreed: that members will participate in the conference as required, including as observers during breakout sessions.
Agreed: that the Minister of Finance and Personnel will be invited to make closing remarks.
Agreed: that digivoting technology be used as a method of capturing opinions and data during the conference.
Agreed: that Committee members will be kept informed regarding progress for the Stakeholder Conference and that the facilitators will liaise with the Chairperson, Deputy Chairperson and Clerk as necessary.
Wednesday, 23 September 2009
Room 152, Parliament Buildings
Present: Jennifer McCann MLA (Chairperson)
Peter Weir MLA (Deputy Chairperson)
Dr Stephen Farry MLA
Simon Hamilton MLA
Fra McCann MLA
Mitchel McLaughlin MLA
David McNarry MLA
Declan O’Loan MLA
Ian Paisley Jr MLA
Dawn Purvis MLA
In Attendance: Shane McAteer (Assembly Clerk)
Kathy O’Hanlon (Assistant Assembly Clerk)
Karen Jardine (Assistant Assembly Clerk)
David McKee (Clerical Supervisor)
Kevin Marks (Clerical Officer)
Apologies: Adrian McQuillan MLA
9. Committee Work Programme
The Committee discussed the arrangements for the Public Procurement Stakeholder Conference on 21 October 2009, which will contribute to the ongoing Inquiry into Public Procurement Policy and Practice in Northern Ireland.
Agreed: that the Committee will invite the chairpersons, deputy chairpersons and clerks of the committees for OFMDFM, Regional Development, Employment and Learning, and Enterprise, Trade and Investment to participate in the conference, as these committees had made submissions to the inquiry.
Agreed: a list of further participants suggested by members to date. Members will forward any additional suggested participants to the Clerk as soon as possible, to reflect, as far as possible, the balance between the SME and Social Economy sectors.
Agreed: that the written submissions received to date on the inquiry will be published on the Committee website to allow conference participants to review the evidence in advance of the conference.
Wednesday, 30 September 2009
Room 152, Parliament Buildings
Present: Jennifer McCann MLA (Chairperson)
Dr Stephen Farry MLA
Mitchel McLaughlin MLA
David McNarry MLA
Declan O’Loan MLA
Adrian McQuillan MLA
In Attendance: Shane McAteer (Assembly Clerk)
Kathy O’Hanlon (Assistant Assembly Clerk)
Karen Jardine (Assistant Assembly Clerk)
David McKee (Clerical Supervisor)
Apologies: Peter Weir MLA (Deputy Chairperson)
Simon Hamilton MLA
Fra McCann MLA
Ian Paisley Jr MLA
Dawn Purvis MLA
10.12 am The meeting commenced in open session.
4. Public Procurement Practice in Northern Ireland: Evidence from Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply
The Committee took evidence from Dr Glynis Davies, Fellow, CIPS. The session was recorded by Hansard.
10.51 am Mr McNarry left the meeting.
10.57 am Mr McNarry returned to the meeting.
11.08 am Dr Farry joined the meeting.
Agreed: that the CIPS representative will provide information as requested by the Committee during the evidence session.
Agreed: that a response will be sought from DFP to a number of the issues raised during the evidence session.
8. Committee Work Programme
The Committee noted progress to date on arrangements for the Public Procurement Stakeholder Conference to be held on Wednesday 21 October at the Dunsilly Hotel, Antrim as part of the Committee’s Inquiry into Public Procurement Policy and Practice in Northern Ireland. It was noted that members had provided further suggestions for invitations to the conference, including local economists.
Agreed: that a number of relevant umbrella organisations will be approached to help identify further conference participants, giving due regard to achieving a balance in terms of regional spread, the SME and Social Economy sectors, and the types of procurement.
Agreed: that the Committee will forward a request to DFP for summary information on progress against the key issues raised in the inquiry evidence to date, which can be provided to the conference participants.
Wednesday, 7 October 2009
Room 152, Parliament Buildings
Present: Mr Peter Weir (Deputy Chairperson)
Dr Stephen Farry MLA
Simon Hamilton MLA
Fra McCann MLA
Mitchel McLaughlin MLA
David McNarry MLA
Adrian McQuillan MLA
Declan O’Loan MLA
Ian Paisley Jr MLA
Dawn Purvis MLA
In Attendance: Shane McAteer (Assembly Clerk)
Kathy O’Hanlon (Assistant Assembly Clerk)
Karen Jardine (Assistant Assembly Clerk)
David McKee (Clerical Supervisor)
Kevin Marks (Clerical Officer)
Apologies: Jennifer McCann MLA (Chairperson)
10.06 am As notification had been received that the Chairperson would not be present, the Deputy Chairperson took the Chair and commenced the meeting in open session.
3. Matters Arising
Members considered the request from the Ministerial Advisory Group for Architecture and the Built Environment for Northern Ireland (MAG) to present evidence on the Public Procurement Inquiry.
Agreed: that a representative from MAG is invited to attend the Public Procurement Stakeholder Conference.
Members were advised that the Sellafield Ltd Supplier Ombudsman, Zoe Whittle, has indicated that she would be willing to brief the Committee on the role of a supplier ombudsman, as discussed during the evidence session with the Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply on 30 September.
Agreed: that Zoe Whittle is invited to attend the Public Procurement Stakeholder Conference. The Committee will also request a briefing paper outlining the role of a supplier ombudsman.
Wednesday, 14 October 2009
Bryson House, Belfast
Present: Jennifer McCann MLA (Chairperson)
Simon Hamilton MLA
Fra McCann MLA
Mitchel McLaughlin MLA
Declan O’Loan MLA
Dawn Purvis MLA
In Attendance: Shane McAteer (Assembly Clerk)
Karen Jardine (Assistant Assembly Clerk)
Kathy O’Hanlon (Assistant Assembly Clerk)
David McKee (Clerical Supervisor)
Kevin Marks (Clerical Officer)
Colin Pidgeon (Assembly Research)
Apologies: Dr Stephen Farry MLA
Adrian McQuillan MLA
David McNarry MLA
Ian Paisley Jr MLA
Mr Peter Weir (Deputy Chairperson)
10.08 am The meeting opened in public session.
4. Public Procurement Practice in Northern Ireland: Evidence from Social Economy Network (SEN)
The Committee took evidence from Anne Graham, Director, SEN; Derek Alcorn, Chief Executive, Citizens Advice; and Marie Marin, Director, Employers for Childcare. The session was recorded by Hansard.
Agreed: that the witnesses will provide information as requested by the Committee during the evidence session.
5. Public Procurement Practice in Northern Ireland: Evidence from Bryson Charitable Group
The Committee took evidence from Sir Nigel Hamilton, Chairman; John McMullan, Chief Executive; and Brian McGinn, Director of Finance & Corporate Services, Bryson Charitable Group. The session was recorded by Hansard.
Agreed: that the witnesses will provide information as requested by the Committee during the evidence session.
11.53 am Mr McLaughlin left the meeting.
11.55 am Mr McLaughlin returned to the meeting.
11.55 am Mr Hamilton left the meeting.
11.55 am The Chairperson suspended the meeting.
11.59 am The Chairperson resumed the meeting.
11.59 am Mr Hamilton returned to the meeting.
11.59 am Mr McCann left the meeting.
9. Assembly Research Paper on Public Procurement and SMEs
The Committee noted an Assembly Research update paper on Public Procurement and SMEs.
10. Update on the Public Procurement Stakeholder Conference
The Chairperson provided an update on the Public Procurement Stakeholder Conference. Members also considered a draft press release on the Conference.
Agreed: that members will forward suggestions for additional participants to the Clerk by Friday 16 October 2009.
Agreed: that the press release be issued.
11. Correspondence
The Committee noted the following correspondence:
- Committee for Enterprise, Trade and Investment (CETI): Correspondence from Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment and Matrix Report on Public Procurement of Innovative Science and Technology Solutions.
Agreed: that the report will be included in the evidence for the ongoing Committee inquiry into public procurement.
- Federation of Small Businesses: Report on Public Procurement.
Agreed: that the report will be included in the evidence for the ongoing Committee inquiry into public procurement.
- DFP: Update on IntertradeIreland Report & Output from the Construction Industry Forum for NI.
- DFP: Update on Procurement issues arising from session on 16 September 2009.
Agreed: that the Committee will take evidence from the Central Procurement Directorate before completion of the inquiry into public procurement.
- Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply (CIPS): CIPS membership in Northern Ireland and opening statement to Committee on 7 October 2009.
Agreed: that the Committee will invite representatives from the CIPS membership in Northern Ireland to the Stakeholder Conference.
Wednesday, 4 November 2009
Room 135, Parliament Buildings
Present: Jennifer McCann MLA (Chairperson)
Peter Weir MLA (Deputy Chairperson)
Dr Stephen Farry MLA
Simon Hamilton MLA
Fra McCann MLA
Mitchel McLaughlin MLA
David McNarry MLA
Adrian McQuillan MLA
Declan O’Loan MLA
Ian Paisley Jr MLA
Dawn Purvis MLA
In Attendance: Shane McAteer (Assembly Clerk)
Karen Jardine (Assistant Assembly Clerk)
Kathy O’Hanlon (Assistant Assembly Clerk)
David McKee (Clerical Supervisor)
Kevin Marks (Clerical Officer)
10.09 am The meeting commenced in open session.
3. Matters Arising
The Committee noted correspondence from the Social Economy Network on Special Contract Arrangements in relation to the Inquiry into Public Procurement Policy and Practice.
Members noted correspondence from Carson McDowell Solicitors in relation to feedback from the Public Procurement Stakeholder Conference on 21 October 2009.
Agreed: that the Committee will consider inviting the legal firms who gave evidence to the Inquiry to comment further, should any legal issues arise as the Committee develops its Inquiry recommendations.
The Committee noted correspondence from NOW on Gauge and Social Return on Investment.
9. Correspondence
DFP: Follow up to Public Procurement evidence session on 30 September 2009.
DFP: Completed templates from Construction and Supplies & Services contracts and from Belfast Education and Library Board.
Agreed: that Central Procurement Directorate (CPD) should pursue outstanding responses on the number and value of contracts awarded to SMEs and Social Economy Enterprises. The Committee will also commission statistical analysis of the data from Assembly Research.
DFP: Update on Legal Challenges against Government Procurement Northern Ireland Local Government Association (NILGA): Local Government Policy Relationship
Agreed: the Committee will invite NILGA to provide a written submission to its Public Procurement Inquiry. The Committee will also commission Assembly Research to provide a research paper comparing local government procurement in other jurisdictions.
10. Committee Work Programme
Agreed: that a written report on the Public Procurement Stakeholder Conference will be considered at the Committee’s meeting on 25 November 2009.
Agreed: that representatives from CPD and a representative from the Procurement Board are invited to brief the Committee at its meeting on 25 November 2009.
Wednesday, 11 November 2009
Room 135, Parliament Buildings
Present: Jennifer McCann MLA (Chairperson)
Dr Stephen Farry MLA
Simon Hamilton MLA
Fra McCann MLA
David McNarry MLA
Declan O’Loan MLA
Ian Paisley Jr MLA
In Attendance: Shane McAteer (Assembly Clerk)
Karen Jardine (Assistant Assembly Clerk)
Kathy O’Hanlon (Assistant Assembly Clerk)
David McKee (Clerical Supervisor)
Kevin Marks (Clerical Officer)
10.09 am The meeting commenced in open session.
5. Correspondence
Committee for the Environment: Procurement methods used by the Department of the Environment’s Local Government Division to appoint consultants or agencies;
Agreed: to forward the correspondence to Central Procurement Directorate (CPD) seeking clarification on policies and processes across the board on the appointment of consultants or agencies; and, to include the correspondence in the evidence for the ongoing Public Procurement Inquiry.
George Simpson: Procurement of IT Systems;
Agreed: to forward the correspondence to CPD seeking a response to the issues raised; and, to include the correspondence in the evidence for the Public Procurement Inquiry.
- Public Accounts Committee (PAC): Composite Reports on Public Procurement;
Agreed: to include the correspondence from PAC in the Public Procurement Inquiry evidence relating to litigation issues.
Wednesday, 18 November 2009
Room 135, Parliament Buildings
Present: Jennifer McCann MLA (Chairperson)
Peter Weir MLA (Deputy Chairperson)
Dr Stephen Farry MLA
Simon Hamilton MLA
Mitchel McLaughlin MLA
David McNarry MLA
Adrian McQuillan MLA
Declan O’Loan MLA
Ian Paisley Jr MLA
In Attendance: Shane McAteer (Assembly Clerk)
Karen Jardine (Assistant Assembly Clerk)
Kathy O’Hanlon (Assistant Assembly Clerk)
David McKee (Clerical Supervisor)
Kevin Marks (Clerical Officer)
Apologies Fra McCann MLA
Dawn Purvis MLA
10.02 am The meeting commenced in open session.
8. Committee Work Programme
Agreed: that the Committee will forward an outline of the key themes from the evidence to date on its Inquiry on Public Procurement Practice in NI to Central Procurement Directorate, for consideration in advance of the evidence session on 25 November.
Wednesday, 25 November 2009
Room 135, Parliament Buildings
Present: Peter Weir MLA (Deputy Chairperson)
Simon Hamilton MLA
Mitchel McLaughlin MLA
David McNarry MLA
Declan O’Loan MLA
Ian Paisley Jr MLA
Fra McCann MLA
Dawn Purvis MLA
In Attendance: Shane McAteer (Assembly Clerk)
Karen Jardine (Assistant Assembly Clerk)
Kathy O’Hanlon (Assistant Assembly Clerk)
David McKee (Clerical Supervisor)
Kevin Marks (Clerical Officer)
Apologies: Jennifer McCann MLA (Chairperson)
Dr Stephen Farry MLA
Adrian McQuillan MLA
10.10 am As notification had been received that the Chairperson would be absent, the Deputy Chairperson took the Chair and commenced the meeting in open session.
4. Public Procurement Policy and Practice in Northern Ireland: Draft Report on Public Procurement Stakeholder Conference
Members considered the draft report on the Public Procurement Stakeholder Conference, prepared by the Conference Facilitator. Members also noted a Secretariat Paper on the benefits and lessons learned from the Conference process.
The Committee also considered a paper tabled by Dr Farry, in his absence, on issues in relation to the Inquiry, including the use of social clauses in public procurement contracts.
Agreed: that the report on the Stakeholder Conference will form part of the evidence base for the Committee’s Inquiry and will be published as an appendix to the final Inquiry Report.
Agreed: that the issues raised in Dr Farry’s paper, alongside other issues arising from the Inquiry to date, will be considered more fully during consideration of the initial draft Inquiry Report.
Agreed: that the report on the Stakeholder Conference is forwarded to Dr Aris Georgopoulos, University of Nottingham and Professor Chris McCrudden, University of Oxford for comment in order to inform the Committee Inquiry Report.
10.26 am The Committee moved into open session.
5. Assembly Research Briefing on Local Government Procurement
The Committee considered a paper by Assembly Research on Local Government Procurement. Members also noted a written submission from the Northern Ireland Local Government Association (NILGA) to the Committee Inquiry into Public Procurement.
10.30 am Mr McNarry left the meeting.
10.38 am Ms Purvis joined the meeting.
Agreed: that Assembly Research will provide further information as requested by the Committee, including details of local government procurement spend.
Agreed: that the Committee will forward the Assembly Research Paper on Local Government Procurement to the Committee for the Environment and NILGA for information.
Agreed: that the Assembly Research Paper on Local Government Procurement and the submission from NILGA will be added to the Inquiry evidence base.
6. Public Procurement Policy and Practice in Northern Ireland: Evidence from Central Procurement Directorate & Procurement Board
The Committee took evidence from the following officials from DFP’s Central Procurement Directorate (CPD): Des Armstrong, Director, CPD, and member of the Procurement Board; Aileen Edmund, CPD and Stewart Heaney, Divisional Director, Construction and Advisory Division, CPD.
The session was recorded by Hansard.
10.34 am Mr Weir left the meeting.
10.34 am Mr McLaughlin took the chair.
11.02 am Mr Paisley Jr left the meeting.
11.24 am Mr O’Loan left the meeting.
11.28 am Mr O’Loan returned to the meeting.
Agreed: that CPD officials will provide further information as requested by the Committee including annual procurement plans for departments and sustainable development plans for CPD and the other CoPEs.
Agreed: that the Committee will write to CPD officials requesting a response to further questions arising from this evidence session.
9. Correspondence
DFP: Completed procurement templates from NI Housing Executive, Health Estates and the Education and Library Boards
Sellafield Ltd: UK Supply Chain Ombudsman
Agreed: that the correspondence is included in the Procurement Inquiry evidence base.
Wednesday, 2 December 2009
Room 135, Parliament Buildings
Present: Peter Weir MLA (Deputy Chairperson)
Dr Stephen Farry MLA
Fra McCann MLA
Mitchel McLaughlin MLA
David McNarry MLA
Adrian McQuillan MLA
Ian Paisley Jr MLA
Dawn Purvis MLA
In Attendance: Shane McAteer (Assembly Clerk)
Kathy O’Hanlon (Assistant Assembly Clerk)
David McKee (Clerical Supervisor)
Kevin Marks (Clerical Officer)
Apologies: Jennifer McCann MLA (Chairperson)
Simon Hamilton MLA
Declan O’Loan MLA
10.10 am As notification had been received that the Chairperson would be absent, the Deputy Chairperson took the Chair and commenced the meeting in open session.
9. Correspondence
The Committee noted the following correspondence
- DFP: Correspondence on Procurement Issues.
Agreed: that the correspondence will be included in the evidence base for the Committee’s Inquiry into Public Procurement Policy and Practice in NI.
- Stakeholder Group: Advertising Policy Undermining Viability of Local Press.
Agreed: that the correspondence will be forwarded to DFP for comment.
Wednesday, 9 December 2009
Room 135, Parliament Buildings
Present: Jennifer McCann MLA (Chairperson)
Dr Stephen Farry MLA
Simon Hamilton MLA
Mitchel McLaughlin MLA
Declan O’Loan MLA
Ian Paisley Jr MLA
Dawn Purvis MLA
In Attendance: Shane McAteer (Assembly Clerk)
Karen Jardine (Assistant Assembly Clerk)
Kathy O’Hanlon (Assistant Assembly Clerk)
David McKee (Clerical Supervisor)
Kevin Marks (Clerical Officer)
Apologies: Peter Weir MLA (Deputy Chairperson)
David McNarry MLA
Fra McCann
10.10 am The meeting commenced in open session.
6. Public Procurement Policy and Practice in NI: Initial Consideration of Draft Committee Inquiry Report
Members considered a working Draft Report on the Committee’s Inquiry into Public Procurement and discussed correspondence from a member on issues relating to the Inquiry.
11.00 am Mr Paisley Jr left the meeting.
11.27 am Mr Hamilton left the meeting.
11.38 am Mr Hamilton returned to the meeting.
Agreed: that the points arising from the initial consideration will be taken forward in further drafting of the Inquiry Report.
The Committee also noted the following correspondence in relation to the Procurement Inquiry:
- DFP: Final Report on the re-accreditation of Centres of Procurement Expertise;
Agreed: that the report is copied to the Public Accounts Committee for information
- Citizens Advice: Committee Inquiry into Procurement for Social Economy Organisations;
Agreed: that the correspondence will be copied to Central Procurement Directorate (CPD) for comment and clarification on the ‘good governance review’ stage of a procurement process and on the role of CPD.
- Assembly Research: Follow-up note Local Government Procurement.
Wednesday, 6 January 2010
Room 135, Parliament Buildings
Present: Jennifer McCann MLA (Chairperson)
Peter Weir MLA (Deputy Chairperson)
Dr Stephen Farry MLA
Simon Hamilton MLA
Fra McCann MLA
Mitchel McLaughlin MLA
David McNarry MLA
Declan O’Loan MLA
Dawn Purvis MLA
In Attendance: Shane McAteer (Assembly Clerk)
Karen Jardine (Assistant Assembly Clerk)
Kathy O’Hanlon (Assistant Assembly Clerk)
David McKee (Clerical Supervisor)
Kevin Marks (Clerical Officer)
10.03 am The meeting commenced in open session.
8. Correspondence
The Committee noted the following correspondence:
- DFP: Follow up to issues raised with Central Procurement Directorate on 25 November 2009.
Wednesday, 20 January 2010
Room 135, Parliament Buildings
Present: Jennifer McCann MLA (Chairperson)
Peter Weir MLA (Deputy Chairperson)
Dr Stephen Farry MLA
Simon Hamilton MLA
Fra McCann MLA
David McNarry MLA
Declan O’Loan MLA
Dawn Purvis MLA
In Attendance: Shane McAteer (Assembly Clerk)
Kathy O’Hanlon (Assistant Assembly Clerk)
Karen Jardine (Assistant Assembly Clerk)
David McKee (Clerical Supervisor)
Kevin Marks (Clerical Officer)
Apologies: Mitchel McLaughlin MLA
Adrian McQuillan MLA
10.05 am The meeting commenced in open session.
8. Correspondence
The Committee noted the following correspondence:
- DFP: Procurement Governance Review.
Agreed: the Committee will forward the response to the Citizen’s Advice Bureau and the Committee for Enterprise, Trade and Investment for information.
Agreed: the correspondence will be included in the evidence base for the Committee’s Inquiry into Public Procurement.
- Professor Christopher McCrudden: Comments on the Public Procurement Conference Stakeholder Report.
- Dr Aris Georgopoulous: Comments on the Public Procurement Conference Stakeholder Report.
Agreed: the correspondence from Professor McCrudden and Dr Georgopoulous will be included in the evidence base for the Committee’s Inquiry into Public Procurement.
Wednesday, 10 February 2010
Room 135, Parliament Buildings
Present: Jennifer McCann MLA (Chairperson)
Peter Weir MLA (Deputy Chairperson)
Dr Stephen Farry MLA
Simon Hamilton MLA
Fra McCann MLA
Adrian McQuillan MLA
Declan O’Loan MLA
Ian Paisley Jr MLA
Dawn Purvis MLA
In Attendance: Shane McAteer (Assembly Clerk)
Karen Jardine (Assistant Assembly Clerk)
Kathy O’Hanlon (Assistant Assembly Clerk)
David McKee (Clerical Supervisor)
Kevin Marks (Clerical Officer)
Apologies: Mitchel McLaughlin MLA
David McNarry MLA
The meeting commenced at 10.07 am in open session.
4. Consideration of Draft Committee Report on the Inquiry into Public Procurement Policy and Practice in Northern Ireland
The Committee undertook a paragraph-by-paragraph consideration of its draft report on the Inquiry into Public Procurement Policy and Practice in Northern Ireland.
Agreed: that paragraphs 1-5 stand part of the Report;
Agreed: that paragraphs 6-11 stand part of the Report;
Agreed: that paragraphs 12-19 stand part of the Report;
Agreed: that paragraphs 20-25 stand part of the Report;
Agreed: that paragraphs 26-31 stand part of the Report;
Agreed: that paragraphs 32-40 stand part of the Report;
Agreed: that Figure 2 stands part of the Report;
Agreed: that paragraph 41 stands part of the Report;
Agreed: that paragraphs 42-48 stand part of the Report;
Agreed: that paragraphs 49-57 stand part of the Report;
Agreed: that paragraphs 58-65 stand part of the Report;
Agreed: that paragraphs 66-72 stand part of the Report;
Agreed: that paragraphs 73-79 stand part of the Report;
Agreed: that paragraphs 80-81 stand part of the Report;
Agreed: that paragraphs 82-88 stand part of the Report;
Agreed: that Figure 3 stands part of the Report;
Agreed: that paragraphs 89-92 stand part of the Report;
Agreed: that paragraphs 93-98 stand part of the Report;
Agreed: that paragraphs 99-108 stand part of the Report;
Agreed: that paragraphs 109-115 stand part of the Report;
Agreed: that paragraphs 116-121 stand part of the Report;
Agreed: that paragraphs 122-128 stand part of the Report;
Agreed: that paragraphs 129-131 stand part of the Report;
Agreed: that paragraphs 132-136 stand part of the Report;
Agreed: that paragraphs 137-142 stand part of the Report;
Agreed: that paragraphs 143-148 stand part of the Report;
Agreed: that paragraphs 149-155 stand part of the Report;
Agreed: that paragraphs 156-160 stand part of the Report;
Agreed: that paragraphs 161-167 stand part of the Report;
Agreed: that paragraphs 168-172 stand part of the Report;
Agreed: that paragraphs 173-176 stand part of the Report;
Agreed: that paragraphs 177-184 stand part of the Report;
Agreed: that paragraphs 185-192 stand part of the Report;
Agreed: that paragraphs 193-200 stand part of the Report;
Agreed: that paragraphs 201-204 stand part of the Report;
Agreed: that paragraphs 205-212 stand part of the Report;
Agreed: that paragraphs 213-219 stand part of the Report;
Agreed: that paragraphs 220-224 stand part of the Report;
Agreed: that paragraphs 225-230 stand part of the Report;
Agreed: that paragraphs 231-235 stand part of the Report;
Agreed: that paragraphs 236-240 stand part of the Report;
Agreed: that paragraphs 241-247 stand part of the Report;
Agreed: that paragraphs 248-253 stand part of the Report;
Agreed: that paragraphs 254-259 stand part of the Report;
Agreed: that paragraphs 260-263 stand part of the Report;
Agreed: that paragraphs 264-272 stand part of the Report;
Agreed: that paragraphs 273-277 stand part of the Report;
Agreed: that paragraphs 278-287 stand part of the Report;
Agreed: that paragraphs 288-296 stand part of the Report;
Agreed: that paragraphs 297-298 stand part of the Report;
Agreed: that paragraphs 299-309 stand part of the Report;
Agreed: that paragraphs 310-312 stand part of the Report;
Agreed: that paragraphs 313-319 stand part of the Report;
Agreed: that the Executive Summary, with a minor amendment, stands part of the report;
Agreed: that, mindful of the sub-judice rule, the DFP paper entitled Legal Challenges Against Government Procurement February 2010 will replace the other DFP papers relating to Legal Challenges in Appendix 4;
Agreed: that the Appendices, as amended, stand part of the Report and that all Appendices will be included on a CD-ROM to accompany the printed version of the Report;
Agreed: that the extract of the unapproved minutes of proceedings of today’s meeting will be checked by the Chairperson and included in Appendix 1.
Agreed: that the Report, as amended, be the First Report of the Committee for Finance and Personnel to the Assembly for session 2009/10.
Agreed: that the Report on the Inquiry into Public Procurement Policy and Practice in Northern Ireland, as amended, be printed.
The Committee agreed the following draft motion to debate the report in plenary:
“That this Assembly approves the report of the Committee for Finance and Personnel on its Inquiry into Public Procurement Policy and Practice in Northern Ireland; and calls on the Minister of Finance and Personnel, in conjunction with Executive colleagues, to implement the recommendations contained therein."
Agreed: to request that the Business Committee considers scheduling the motion in plenary on Tuesday 23 February.
Members considered a draft press release which will be issued ahead of the plenary debate.
Agreed: that the press release will issue prior to the plenary debate subject to minor amendment.
Members noted that a typescript copy of the Report will issue to DFP by the end of the week, in line with normal protocol and in advance of printed copies being made available.
Agreed: that the report will also be issued to all MLAs when published and to the following additional recipients:
- Those who provided written and oral evidence to the Inquiry;
- Stakeholder Conference Facilitator and Commentators;
- Stakeholder Conference Participants;
- Professor Chris McCrudden;
- Dr Aris Georgopoulos;
- Centres of Procurement Expertise; and
- The Procurement Board.