80 Irish manufacturers will today showcase their PPE and Covid-19 related products and services to buyers from across the public sector, during an online event organised by Enterprise Ireland and the Office of Government Procurement.
The 'connect' event will see businesses holding ten minute ‘speed dating’ meetings with public sector buyers.
"Connecting Irish manufacturers with public sector buyers is important," said Robert Troy, Minister of State for Trade Promotion, Digital and Company Regulation.
"Since the beginning of the pandemic Irish companies have played a leading role in developing products and services that combat Covid-19 in a variety of settings.
"Recently the OECD ranked Ireland as fifth in the world for Covid-19 exports.
"It’s vital that our public sector is also kept up-to-date with developments in this vital area across many industry sectors and can factor that into their future purchasing plans," he said.
Enterprise Ireland’s Tom Kelly said this event aims to build awareness of the range of products and services available from Irish business.
"From the outset of the pandemic dozens of Irish companies have pivoted and ensured a robust supply chain for essential PPE and other products such as testing kits, sanitisers, face masks and gowns.
"Sourcing material from an Irish supplier ensures a simple supply chain and quality assurance – factors that are important to the public sector.
"I know this showcase event will benefit both the public sector and business and ensure that buyers are aware of the products available and the great businesses behind them," said Mr Kelly.