RFT for supply of wool scarves

Description

Ireland will hold the Presidency of the Council of the European Union from 1 July to 31 December 2026. During the Presidency, an extensive and wide-ranging programme of meetings, events and conferences will be held in Ireland. The programme will include official-level meetings, as well as meetings with senior political-level attendees such as informal Council of Ministers meetings. Events will be organised by a wide range of Government departments and official bodies. In addition, Irish Ministers and officials will chair multiple meetings of over 170 EU working parties and other high-level meetings in Brussels and Luxembourg each involving delegations from all EU Member States. The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) has responsibility for the procurement of a range of goods and services associated with supporting a co-ordinated and cost-effective cross-Government approach to delivery of this programme of events. In the procurement of goods and services for the Presidency programme, important considerations will include security; cost effectiveness and value-for-money; sustainability; environmental impact; and community benefit. It is customary for the Member State holding the Presidency of the Council of the European Union to provide mementos for Heads of Delegation at certain high-level Presidency meetings. The provision of mementos is an opportunity to strengthen goodwill between colleagues and to promote domestic craftsmanship internationally, promoting the cultural identity of the host country and strengthening economic and cultural links. Accordingly, the Contracting Authority is seeking the supply and delivery of approximately 4,500 woollen scarves, with a distinctive and uniquely Irish artistic character.