Competitive Procedure with Negotiation
As Gaeilge: Nós Imeachta Iomaíoch le hIdirbheartaíocht
Also known as: CPN, Negotiated Procedure with Prior Publication
Last reviewed April 2026
An EU procedure where the buyer invites tenders, then negotiates with shortlisted bidders before final offers, used for complex or design-led contracts.
Set out in Regulation 29 of S.I. 284/2016, this is the formal name for the negotiated procedure with prior publication. Permitted only where the requirement involves design or innovative solutions, where specifications cannot be drafted with sufficient precision, or where the contract cannot be awarded without prior negotiation. The authority publishes a contract notice, shortlists bidders against selection criteria, then runs one or more negotiation rounds before calling for final tenders. Used in Ireland for complex IT, R&D and works contracts where an open or restricted procedure would not suit.
Recent tenders mentioning Competitive Procedure with Negotiation
Single-Party Framework for the provision of Digital Transformation Services under the Competitive Procedure with Negotiation
The Pharmaceutical Society of Ireland (PSI - the Pharmacy Regulator) · >5M
Single Party Framework Agreement for the Provision of Cloud-Based Cost Rental Assessment System under the Competitive Procedure with Negotiation
Tuath Housing Association Ltd · 500k-1M
ATU Multi Party Framework Agreement for Medical Device Prototyping Services
Atlantic Technological University · 1M-5M
Related terms
Negotiated Procedure
A flexible EU procedure where the authority negotiates terms with shortlisted bidders — only allowed in defined circumstances.
Competitive Dialogue
A flexible EU procedure for complex contracts where the authority develops the solution with shortlisted candidates.
Innovation Partnership
An EU procedure where the buyer co-develops a new product or service with one or more suppliers and can buy the result without re-tendering.