HC Deb 21 March 1984 vol 56 cc495-6W
Mr. John David Taylor

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland why no Northern Ireland firm of consultant engineers was employed for the European Economic Community grant-aided Blackwater drainage scheme; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Butler

When the appointment of a firm of consulting engineers was being considered in 1979 it was found that no Northern Ireland firms had sufficient experience or expertise in such large and complex rural drainage schemes.

Mr. John David Taylor

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what percentage of the firms on the select list of contractors for the European Economic Community grant-aided Blackwater drainage scheme main contract are from Northern Ireland.

Mr. Butler

57 per cent.