There has been a warm welcome for an innovative method of looking after Government buildings.

The NI Finance Minister, Sammy Wilson, said the launch of two major Property Management Framework Agreements for the Government Estate is good news.

The Framework Agreements, awarded to H&J Martin Ltd, cover a wide range of activities including general maintenance, minor works and the planned preventative maintenance of equipment, such as boilers, lifts and fire alarms.

During a visit to H&J Martin's Facilities Management Division in Castlereagh, the Minister had the opportunity to review the supply chain management arrangements being put in place by the company.

The Minister said: "As we enter a more constrained financial position, we need to ensure we get maximum value from every pound we spend.

"Previously, multiple contracts were awarded for various aspects of property maintenance. This required intensive technical and administrative support from staff within my Department's Properties Division.

"These new contractual arrangements will streamline working practices to deliver a more comprehensive property management service across the NICS." he said.

Under the new contractual arrangements, much of the day-to-day planning and organising of the supply chain, which includes up to 50 separate companies, will transfer to H&J Martin.

Mr Wilson continued: "The new arrangements will enable DFP technical staff to take a more strategic role in the delivery of services to clients.

"More importantly, however, these framework agreements have created opportunities for local companies. H&J Martin's supply chain is made up almost entirely of local SMEs. In addition, these firms will further subcontract elements of work to an estimated 300 other small local businesses."

The Minister concluded: "These framework agreements demonstrate how best practice construction procurement can deliver value for money benefits for government. While the core customer is the NICS, DFP Properties Division can also provide services to wider Public Sector clients using the same arrangements.

"There are lessons here on how we can be more efficient in our working practices and secure Value for Money in the delivery of services across the Public Sector."

(NS/BMcc)