The procedure for the appointment of consultants for work within Northern Ireland Departments is based on a competitive process and is governed by the rules set out in the Government Accounting Northern Ireland manual (GANI) and the Public Contracts Regulations 2006.
Where expected spend is not above European Union procurement thresholds, Departments will comply with the principles set out in GANI.
Where spend is expected to be above European Union procurement thresholds in addition to complying with GANI, Departments will comply with the procedures set out in the Public Contracts Regulations 2006.
The criteria used for awarding a public contract will be based on the offer which
is the most economically advantageous from the point of view of the contracting authority; or
offers the lowest price.