Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 June 2020
814. Deputy David Cullinane asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection the status of the tender process regarding the provision of the local employment service; the impact of Covid-19 on this process; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [11871/20]
View answerThe Local Employment Services are currently on twelve month contracts, renewed annually subject to review by my Department.
My Department engaged with external consultants in December 2019 to review all current contracted public employment services (PES), including Local Employment Services. The consultants' report, currently being finalised, will inform the Government's decision on the future structure of all contracted PES.
It is essential that we ensure our labour market activation services are fit-for-purpose and provide value for money. This must be balanced against the pressing need to ensure that these key services are fully in place when needed by those who have lost their jobs as a result of the ongoing public health crisis.
Any provision of contracted public employment services in 2021 will need to retain the capacity to manage the labour market impacts of Covid-19.
