Regulation 139. Requirements of contracting entity

(1) Contracting entities may take into account the need to ensure quality, continuity, accessibility, affordability, availability and comprehensiveness of the services, the specific needs of different categories of users, including disadvantaged and vulnerable groups, the involvement and empowerment of users and innovation.

(2) Contracting entities shall ensure that the procedures identified in sub-regulation (1) shall be reasonable and proportionate, in particular, the time limits allowed for the submission of the offer shall be sufficient to allow bidders to submit an offer.

(3) In establishing the procedures mentioned under this Part contracting entities may, subject to what is stated in the regulations established under this Part, also decide to apply the regulations established for other procurement procedures.

(4) Contracting entities may also provide that the choice of the service provider shall be made on the basis of the tender presenting the best price-quality ratio, taking into account quality and sustainability criteria for social services.