Government denies involvement in alleged price-fixing probe

THE Government has said it has not been involved in any investigation into alleged price-fixing by construction companies fighting for lucrative public contracts.

Yesterday, the Office of Public Works said it was unaware of the investigation until weekend reports suggested a formalised process of “bid-rigging” was under way.

A report in the Irish Mail on Sunday said there were €2.5 billion worth of contracts under review. The paper said a collection of construction companies were agreeing between them who would submit the lowest bid. This would be rotated to ensure companies got the highest return from the tender process.