Brussels, 25/01/2013 (Agence Europe) - On Thursday 25 January 2013, MEPs on the European Parliament's internal market committee adopted a draft report by Marc Tarabella (S&D, Belgium) by a wide majority, revising the EU public procurement rules for utilities (water, energy, postal services and transport). The approach is largely the same as that taken by the EP in the main public procurement directive, for which Tarabella is also the rapporteur (see EUROPE 10755).
The MEPs recommend that, in awarding public service contracts, the focus should be on quality rather than cost, choosing the best offer economically while including clauses on compliance with social and environmental standards. They introduce a liability chain making sub-contracting companies responsible for ensuring that social standards are met by the subcontractor in the country where the contract is fulfilled. The report introduces measures on public-public cooperation, which was previously not included in the directives.
“This is a step in the right direction, which reinforces the line taken in December's vote. It also reflects our determination to improve the quality and efficiency of public services, facilitate market access for SMEs, and ensure compliance with good working conditions and environmental criteria. Especially in this time of crisis, citizens expect every euro of public money to be spent effectively, efficiently and responsibly”, said Tarabella in a press release. (MB/transl.fl)