Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 7 December 2023
117. Deputy Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire asked the Minister for Social Protection to provide an update on the tender for EmployAbility which was due to be published in April 2023; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [54242/23]
View answerMy Department issued a Request for Tender (RFT) for the provision of contracted public employment services for people with disabilities on 14 September 2023, with a closing date of 20 November. Bids were requested for 23 geographic lots.
An evaluation of the bids received in respect of all 23 lots is underway at present. Where a particular lot will be vacant on 1 January 2024 it is intended to award a contract for that lot with effect from 1 January; in all other cases it is intended that new contracts will commence on 1 April 2024.
The new model for EmployAbility was developed following extensive engagement with existing service providers, and will enhance the autonomy of service providers to enable them to more effectively provide a high-quality supported employment service for people with disabilities.
