European Union (Award of Public Authority Contracts) Regulations 2016 (S.I. No. 284/2016).

The European Union (Award of Public Authority Contracts) Regulations 2016 (S.I. No. 284/2016) establish the legal framework for public procurement by contracting authorities in Ireland, implementing Directive 2014/24/EU. These regulations govern how public authorities award contracts for works, supplies, and services. They apply to contracts exceeding specific financial thresholds and aim to ensure transparency, equal treatment, and non-discrimination in procurement processes. The regulations define various procurement procedures, including open, restricted, competitive dialogue, and innovation partnerships, and set out rules for their use. They also address exclusions, such as contracts in the defence sector or those governed by international agreements. Specific provisions cover framework agreements, dynamic purchasing systems, electronic auctions, and joint procurement. The regulations require contracting authorities to publish notices, maintain documentation, and apply objective criteria for selection and award. They also include rules on contract modification, subcontracting, and performance conditions.
Contracting authorities are encouraged to include environmental criteria in technical specifications, award criteria, and contract performance conditions. This means they can require goods or services to meet certain eco-friendly standards, such as energy efficiency, reduced emissions, or sustainable sourcing. Authorities may also reference eco-labels or certifications (like the EU Ecolabel) to verify compliance with environmental standards, provided these labels meet transparency and accessibility requirements. Additionally, the regulations support the use of life-cycle costing, allowing authorities to assess the total environmental impact of a product or service over its entire life span—from production to disposal—rather than just the upfront cost.