Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 9 September 2021
723. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Social Protection the tendering processes that were followed in respect of the allocation of contracts under the JobPath programme in 2021; the number of applications received under each tender; the process by which they were evaluated; the areas tenders allocated in 2021 cover; the length of each successful new contract; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42866/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe tenders for the JobPath service were published in December 2013 and Jobpath contracts were awarded in July 2015. Both contracts for the JobPath service were subsequently extended to maintain the service for 2020 and, subsequently, 2021. There was no tendering process, applications, evaluation, allocation or new contracts associated with the JobPath service in 2021.
For the Deputies information there has a been a more recent procurement process for a Regional Employment Service in four lots covering seven counties in the Midlands and North-West. My Department sought tenders for four lots covering Donegal, Sligo and Leitrim, Longford and Westmeath and Laois and Offaly. This procurement process is still ongoing.
Phase two of the procurement of the Regional Employment Service will commence shortly following further engagement with service partners and the incorporation of learnings from phase one.
I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
