251 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the measures in place to ensure that contractors engaged by local authorities are tax compliant and that they observe industry agreements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42146/10]

252 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he is satisfied that any contracts entered into by a council and a contractor (details supplied) are tax compliant and in accord with the registered agreement for the construction industry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42147/10]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 251 and 252 together.

As a general guide, local authorities should always comply with the requirements set out in national and EU procurement guidelines.

The Department of Finance has responsibility at central level for the preparation of procurement guidelines for public bodies. My Department's role is to ensure that such guidance is brought to the attention of bodies under its aegis, including local authorities.

With specific reference to the scheme mentioned, the local authority concerned has advised my Department that it will rigorously enforce compliance with the obligations of the contract, including tax compliance requirements and in accordance with the Registered Agreement for the Construction Industry.