The current Public Works Contract in Ireland can be unappealing to contractors due to its risk allocation, which tends to place a disproportionate burden on them. This can lead to contractors seeking more favourable terms in the commercial sector. To reform the contract, the government could consider shifting some risk back to the contracting authority, possibly through mechanisms like cost-reimbursement or framework agreements, and offering more flexibility regarding pricing and inflation protection. How can the government can make the Public Works Contract more attractive to contractors, leading to increased competition, better value for money, and a more efficient infrastructure sector? What are the issues with the contract and how should it be reformed?
Topics will include:
- Lack of flexibility, making it difficult to accommodate changes during the project lifecycle
- Improving risk management and allowing for more flexible pricing mechanisms
- Utilising framework agreements to simplify the procurement process and allow for more predictable pricing
- Fostering greater collaboration between the contracting authority and the contractor
