French firm battles UK councils over work in Israel
02 Sep 2010
Source: Supply Chain Management
Attempts by British councillors to ban Veolia Environment from tendering for local authority contracts because of its light railway work linking Israel to East Jerusalem’s disputed territories has been criticised by the company. Councillors from the City and County of Swansea and Dublin City Council have called for the French multinational firm and its subsidiaries to be banned from bidding for their contracts because of its links to the controversial Israeli construction work.
A spokesman for Veolia said: “The guidance on European procurement law is quite specific and, there is no basis to prevent our lawful participation in relevant procurement processes. We believe the project is not contrary to international law but have consistently confirmed our position that we would respect any final ruling by a recognised international court. Our employees in the UK are committed to providing quality service to their local communities.” Motions calling for the ban on Veolia bids have been successfully passed at meetings of the councils. Despite passing the motions, both councils admitted the implementation of such a ruling could not go ahead because it would be contrary to procurement rules.
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