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JobPath Programme

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 30 January 2018

Tuesday, 30 January 2018

Ceisteanna (588, 589)

Thomas Byrne

Ceist:

588. Deputy Thomas Byrne asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection to set out the annual remuneration of the two JobPath providers (details supplied) to deliver the programme nationwide; and the number employed by both providers in their offices across the country. [4111/18]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Thomas Byrne

Ceist:

589. Deputy Thomas Byrne asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection if she is satisfied that the offices of the two JobPath providers are sufficiently equipped with basic information technology equipment such as computers and printers to carry out their functions. [4112/18]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

I propose to take Questions Nos. 588 and 589 together.

JobPath is a payment by results model and all set-up and day-to-day operational costs are borne by the companies. The companies are paid on the basis of performance and with the exception of the initial registration fee; payments are made only when a client has achieved sustained employment. The registration fee may be claimed once a jobseeker has developed a Personal Progression Plan (PPP). Job Sustainment Fees (JSF) are payable for each 13 week period of sustained employment, up to a maximum of 52 weeks (i.e. 4 payments).

The overall cost of JobPath will be determined by the number of people who participate in the programme and the number who get sustainable jobs.

It is not intended to publish the individual payments to the JobPath companies as these are commercially sensitive and to do so would place the State at a disadvantage both in terms of the contracts currently in place and in any future procurement that may be undertaken.

The total amount claimed in fees by the two companies in 2015 was €1.2m, in 2016 was €28.6m and in 2017 was €58.5m.

Seetec directly employ 242 FTEs (full time equivalents), and a further 97 through their subcontractors. Turas Nua directly employs 329 FTEs.

Access to IT facilities is essential for clients referred to JobPath and the contractors are required to equip their offices accordingly. Regular inspections are carried out by my Department to ensure the service is delivered as per the contract and they cover issues such as service delivery, suitability and standard of accommodation and staffing. No issues with IT facilities provided in offices have been identified. If the Deputy has a particular issue he feels should be further investigated, he should provide the information and the matter will be explored.

To date 51 on-site inspections have been carried out at locations around the country and these will continue for the duration of the JobPath contract. Inspections may be notified or un-notified and may be general or can focus on specific matters of interest as required.

I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.

Question No. 590 withdrawn.
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