Sofie visits Northern Ireland...again!

Following a workshop given by CPET for the NI Central Procurement Directorate in the spring of 2007, Sofie was invited back to present at three further events for three different organisations.

A training session was run for the NI Government’s Housing Executive which is a significant user of timber. The Northern Ireland Government has chosen to adopt the procurement policy despite not being mandated to do so. Using the UK Guidance Note as a basis they have developed their own and are in the process of raising awareness with procurement officers.  Over 100 people attended the seminar and a further 100 have been identified so Sofie will go back to Ireland in March to complete the training.

At the same time CPET was invited to run a workshop for the Construction Employers Federation Ltd (CEF). This organisation was keen to understand how to meet Government procurement requirements and what CPET tools and guidance were available for them to use.

Finally, Sofie presented to Wood NI, which represents timber traders from across the country. They acknowledge the need to support their members in getting ready for the new policy implementation from April 2009. In response to this Wood NI is preparing a procurement policy document for members and invited CPET to help with training and awareness raising.

Both the trade and construction sector workshops were well supported with in total over 40 people attending. Maurice Brooks, director of Wood NI, who co-ordinated the visit said, “CPET running these sessions for us is invaluable for the implementation of the procurement policy.”

If other public bodies or federations would like CPET to present at their event please feel free to speak to Sofie direct on the helpline to discuss your requirements.