Michael Healy-Rae
Question:494. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Social Protection the status of plans for local employment schemes (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [45972/21]
View answerTuesday, 28 September 2021
Questions (494, 495)
Danny Healy-Rae
Question:495. Deputy Danny Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Social Protection the status of a local service (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [45975/21]
View answerWritten answers
I propose to take Questions Nos. 494 and 495 together.
My Department is now at an advanced stage in its first phase of procuring new employment services. This phase involves the procurement of regional employment services for seven counties in the Midlands and North-West across four lots. These counties do not have an existing local employment service and represent the first phase of an expansion of employment services.
The funding approach for the new service awards approximately ninety percent of fees to providers when clients commence their engagement and agree their personal progression plan. The latter requires a tailored approach for each client and can contain progression towards employment, which may involve participation on relevant education, training or other programmes.
Phase two will take on board the learnings of the first phase and apply these to subsequent Requests for Tenders that will expand this model throughout the rest of the State, including County Kerry. This is a significant expansion of employment services and will result in State-wide coverage of employment services for those furthest from the labour market for the first time.
The Department is in receipt of legal advice from the Attorney General's office that it must procure its employment services in an open and competitive manner in order to meet its legal obligations arising from EU and national procurement rules.
I understand and appreciate the concerns in the sector at the changes to the Local Employment Service model. However, existing service providers with a strong track record and a willingness to cooperate with others in the sector, will be well-placed to submit high-quality tenders for the new services. The new model and its associated procurement process is accessible to the community and voluntary sectors, including through lower financial requirements and a significant emphasis on service quality. Phase two will take on board the learnings from the phase one procurement.
Question No. 495 answered with Question No. 494.