Lowest Price Criterion
As Gaeilge: Critéar an Phraghais Is Ísle
Also known as: Lowest Price Wins, Cheapest Compliant
Last reviewed April 2026
An award method where the contract goes to the cheapest compliant bid, allowed in Ireland only for fully specified, low-complexity requirements.
An evaluation approach where price is the only award criterion. Permitted in Ireland under Regulation 67 only where the requirement is fully specified and quality is not a differentiator (commodity supplies, standard works items). The OGP and Department of Public Expenditure discourage lowest-price awards on services and complex works because they can drive abnormally low tenders, poor performance and disputes. MEAT remains the default for most above-threshold contracts.
Related terms
MEAT (Most Economically Advantageous Tender)
The evaluation method that weighs quality alongside price — required for most above-threshold Irish contracts.
Award Criteria
The standards used to evaluate tenders and pick the winner — in Ireland either lowest price or MEAT.
Abnormally Low Tender
A bid so low the contracting authority must investigate before awarding — sustainability, labour law, or state-aid concerns.