Mr Patsy McGlone (Mid Ulster): To ask the Minister for Communities whether it is normal practice to delay the issue of tender documents in the public procurement process whilst funding or business case matters are being resolved. [Priority Written]
Minister for Communities: My Department has put in place robust procedures which ensure that all procurement carried out is compliant with Northern Ireland Public Procurement Policy and the requirements of Managing Public Money NI.
The issuing of tender documentation is subject to the relevant programme or project securing appropriate approval. Contracts are only awarded when the business case has been updated to reflect the outcome of the tender process and funding has been secured. Therefore, the approach to procurement is considered on a case-by-case basis.
ENDS
Your MLA 