The request for proposals (RFP) was advertised on April 20th with a closing date of April 30, 1998. It was felt that this provided adequate time to prepare proposals. Copies of the RFP were sent to 11 potential bidders. None of the consultants who were provided copies of the RFP requested an extension.
One compliant proposal was received and was an excellent proposal. There was no reason to cancel the competition and issue another request for proposals.
The proposal provided detail on methodology, work plan, the management team and costs associated with the management team. No costs were detailed with respect to the sub-consultants that would be required, as they had not been selected. The contract was not awarded until the sub-consultants were selected and the costs determined to be appropriate.
If I may, Mr. Speaker. A question asked by Mr. Groenewegen. Costs for the development of economic strategies.