Small firms hit out at supply plan for schools

Small local suppliers of stationery, computer equipment, and other goods for schools fear new rules on centralised buying could costs hundreds of jobs.

Along with other bodies who rely on at least half of their funding coming from the taxpayer, schools must follow strict procedures on sourcing a range of goods and services. The same rules are being applied to colleges, councils, gardaí, prisons, and the health sector.

Since September and October, they must buy goods from a shortlist of suppliers of items including ICT consumables, managed print services, and advertising. The requirements will be extended to schools from next year for stationery, paper, and janitorial supplies.