Press Release

Derry City Council determined to challenge decision

27th October 2005

Derry City Council today reiterated its determination to challenge the Department of Finance and Personnel’s procurement decision on the preferred bidder status for the electronic Human Resource (e-HR) contract.

Representatives of the civic and business community are united in the condemnation of the Department’s position that is considered Belfast-centric, negates the recognised position of the city in regional development strategies and fails to address the regional economic deficit.

At the monthly Council Meeting on Tuesday 25th October, the Town Clerk, Mr Anthony McGurk, was given delegated authority to authorise the initiation of judicial review proceedings, if required. This was a unanimous decision taken by all members representing a strong unified message from Council that they wish the decision to be challenged.

Commenting on progress Tony McGurk, Town Clerk and Chief Executive of Derry City Council said that scrutinising each aspect of the decision process was essential.

“Derry City Council are committed to scrutinising each stage of the decision making process to ensure that the principles of equity and regional balance were fully considered. Civic and Business leaders demand to know the facts so as to regain confidence in the procurement process on this project”.

The Mayor, on behalf of the Civic Regeneration Forum, has already written to Lord Rooker seeking clarification on a number of issues with regard to the procurement process. A meeting with the Secretary of State, earlier in the week, created an important exchange of views between government and city representatives.

Ends

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