Directive 2014/24/EU on public procurement is a barrier for blood banks

15.11.2018

Question for written answer E-005795-18
to the Commission
Rule 130
Othmar Karas (PPE)

Article 92 of Directive 2014/24/EU on public procurement stipulates a review of the directive in the form of a Commission report to the Parliament and the Council by 18 April 2019. Article 77(5) stipulates, as a guideline, that the provisions for awarding certain services for reserved contracts should be assessed. Currently, organisations to whom such contracts have been awarded may not win another contract for the same service within the next three years (Article 77(2)(d)). This provision also relates to blood bank services in accordance with CPV 58146000.

1. Does the Commission see any consequences resulting from these provisions, which are contrary to incentives for investments in infrastructure, test methods and equipment?

2. Does the Commission see problems and a risk for guaranteeing sufficient supply of blood products for patients (i.e. blood reserves of all blood types 24/7/365, also in exceptional circumstances, such as disasters, major accidents or epidemics)?

3. Which measures does the Commission plan to implement for awarding public contracts to prevent any problems in guaranteeing sufficient supplies of blood products at any time, including in exceptional circumstances?