Issue - meetings

Forward Plan Ref: 2011/058

Contact: Nathan Travis, Assistant Chief Fire Officer Tel: (01865) 855206

Report by Chief Fire Officer (CMDSSC6).

This report seeks an exemption from Rule 13 of the Contract Procedure Rules, to submit tenders for the goods, services or works required by the Council. The reason is that the council, through no fault of its own, will not have a supply of personal protective equipment for firefighters unless this exemption is granted. This places an unacceptable risk on the council to meet its statutory duty to both firefighters as employees and in turn the public who depend on our staff to provide a safe and effective emergency response.

The Report highlights both the current and historical situation, by way of context, and the Value For Money, Legal, Sustainability and Health & Safety implications of not following the recommended course of action.

The Cabinet Member for Safer & Stronger Communities is recommended to approve this exemption from the Council’s Contract Procedure Rules in view of the emergency situation now brought about beyond the reasonable control of the council.

(a)               To approve this exemption from the Council’s Contract Procedure Rules in view of the emergency situation now brought about which is beyond the reasonable control of the Council; and

(b)               request the Chief Fire Officer to provide updates at the appropriate time on the results of the mini competition exercise.