Reform of procurement is specifically called out under action 25 of Accelerating Infrastructure: Report and Action Plan. There are also a number of actions focused on improving the visibility of the pipeline and providing greater certainty around the timing of the delivery stage of critical infrastructure. Government policy with regard to public works procurement continues to require comprehensive definition of the brief and detailed description of the scope as this represents the most efficient means of delivery. There has been a significant move to rebalance the level of risk that consultants and contractors are expected to bear when engaged on public works projects. Liability caps and index-based price adjustment mechanisms have been introduced in the consultancy and construction contracts. Further reforms that are highlighted in the action plan include formalising dispute avoidance and early warning provisions; the development of an early engagement model to enable collaboration at the earliest point to drive efficiencies; the introduction of lean principles; and further adoption and promotion of digital technologies. There is also a focus on training and supports for contracting authorities engaged in works delivery through the commercial skills programme. Through the construction sector group, there is ongoing engagement between the Government and industry on building the capacity of the sector itself through a range of supports and productivity measures.

Sentiment score: 0.32

There are ongoing reforms, as the Deputy knows, on the capital works management framework. It is an integrated set of contractual provisions, guidance material and technical procedure. It covers all aspects of the delivery process of a public works project, from inception to final project delivery or review. The structure of this strategic framework is closely aligned with and complements the infrastructure guidelines developed by the Department of public expenditure and reform. A key theme of the review of the capital works management framework, CWMF, is the development of high-quality information to enable better informed decisions, reducing risk on construction projects. We need to secure value for money. It is an ongoing priority for the Government. It is at the heart of all decision-making at every stage of policy or programme life. There is a lot of good work going on. I thank the Deputy for her question.

Sentiment score: 0.16

Building information modelling, BIM, provides a structure for information generated in respect of a construction project. There is now a high-level implementation plan for phased adoption of the BIM on public works projects. In three years' time, all public works projects will have BIM requirements incorporated. As of 1 January last, milestone 6 of the Irish BIM mandate for CWMF has been reached. These requirements now include the contractor and supply chain on applicable projects up to €10 million. The Government continues to provide support to the industry to adopt all these areas through the Build Digital Project. There is a lot of good work going on, and we need to continue it.

Sentiment score: 0.22