NI Water Contracts Transparency 'Essential': SDLP

SDLP Regional Development Spokesperson Tommy Gallagher has called for the independent investigation into procurement practices within NI Water to be made available to the Assembly's DRD Committee.

He said: "The Minister’s indication that he will consider amending the procurement framework is a step forward. However given that NI Water will be spending £527million on capital expenditure over the next three years, it is imperative that there is full transparency in all aspects of future procurement procedures.


"If reports are to be believed, the procurement procedures up to this point have given rise to very serious concerns.

"If there are any questions about breaches surrounding the award of contracts within NI Water, then that is a matter that must be fully investigated."

Mr Gallagher continued: "In order to restore public confidence and to reassure local contractors who seek public work, all issues must be dealt with in an open and transparent way.

"The onus rests on Minister Conor Murphy and his department to share the full details of this report with the Assembly Committee without further delay."

(NS/BMcC)