Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 21 October 2014
550. Deputy John Lyons asked the Minister for Education and Skills if she will review compliance mechanisms at all school and other educational building sites to ensure workers are paid the proper rate for jobs and in keeping with legislation and EU directives. [40475/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraSchool building projects which are funded from public monies, are required to use the forms of contract provided under the Capital Works Management Framework which includes a suite of public works contracts, standard conditions of engagement, model forms, suitability assessment questionnaires and guidance notes published by the Office of Government Procurement (OGP). The OGP is an office within the Department of Public Expenditure & Reform which has been tasked with centralising public sector procurement arrangements for common goods and services. As the Deputy is aware my Department appointed Contractors Administration Services (CAS), to conduct random audits on school building projects. Should irregularities be uncovered in terms of non-compliance with relevant employment law, enforcement and prosecution falls under the remit of NERA and my Department will report any discrepancies found to it. If the audit uncovers any other matters of concern regarding tax compliance or social welfare fraud, such matters will be referred to either the Revenue Commissioners and/or the Department of Social Protection as appropriate.
