Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 15 June 2021
844. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Social Protection her views on criticism by an organisation (details supplied) of Government plans for a regional employment service that seeks to replace existing jobs clubs and local employment services; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32105/21]
View answerI understand the Deputy is referring to a press release relating to the ongoing public procurement process for a regional employment service for four lots across seven counties in the North-West and Midlands.
While I am constrained on what I can say during a live procurement process, I wish to highlight my Department's extensive engagement with ILDN and individual contracted employment services throughout the State in the years leading up the publication of the request for tender.
The legal obligation to hold a competitive procurement for all employment services has been flagged for over two years to the sector. In addition, every effort was made to ensure no barriers were erected to prevent the participation of the sector represented by the ILDN in this procurement and the request for tender reflects this. The RFT will deliver an expanded employment service in the State, thereby increasing our capacity to support more individuals who need employment assistance advice and support in securing employment. The RFT has been designed to deliver high quality employment service supports to those who are furthest from the labour market.
I look forward to a broad range of potential tenderers engaging in this process and to the establishment of appropriate services to assist the long-term unemployed progress towards and into employment.
