The table outlines the number of mobile phones and the total cost of purchasing for the specified years. The figures broken down by grade are currently being compiled and I will arrange for them to be forwarded to the Deputy in the coming days.
Year
|
2016
|
2017
|
2018
|
2019 to date
|
Number of phones
|
79
|
50
|
114
|
114
|
Cost (€)
|
5,289
|
3,795
|
19,342
|
25,387
|
My Department previously had a contract with Vodafone for the provision of mobile and telephony services, including the provision of mobile phones, which expired in 2016.
In 2016 the Office for Government Procurement advised that my Department continue with the existing supplier until a new framework was established. This new OGP framework is now in place. However, the tender competition to replace this contract was delayed due to competing priorities following the Department's HQ move to Miesian Plaza.
My Department is at an advanced stage of preparation with the OGP in relation to this tendering process and I expect that process to commence shortly. Use of this OGP framework will ensure value for the taxpayer in relation to these costs.
My Department offers a standard smartphone to officials at Assistant Principal grade and above. Requests for staff at other grades must have a clear business need and be supported by a business case. In exceptional circumstances, a higher specification phone and/or increased data package may be appropriate. Such requests are considered on a case by case basis and must be supported by an appropriate business case. My Department also monitors usage on an ongoing basis to ensure the most economical packages are assigned to each account.