€23 million of Monaghan Council contracts awarded to companies from outside the country over last two years

€23 million worth of contracts were awarded by Monaghan County Council to companies outside of the state over the last two years.

Senator Robbie Gallagher told the Seanad this morning that the figure has brought frustration on local companies.

He claims eight of the 13 contracts awarded in 2019 and 2020 went to companies from outside of Ireland, totalling €23m.

Senator Gallagher called for inspections to be carried out to ensure all contractors working inside the state are abiding by Irish working conditions regulations and other legislation.

Responding, Junior Minister Ossian Smyth said EU legislation sets out how the tendering process is carried out.

Senator Gallagher called for more to be done to ensure "a level playing field":