Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 7 October 2021
30. Deputy Joan Collins asked the Minister for Social Protection the Article in the EU Directives on Public Procurement 2014/24/EU in which it states that it is obligatory to go to public procurement; and if the interpretation of this article has been validated by the Office of Government Procurement. [48552/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department is at an advanced stage in its first phase of procuring new employment services. This phase involves the procurement of regional employment services for seven counties in the Midlands and North-West across four lots. Phase two will see the Regional Employment Service model rolled out across the State and my Department will take on board the learnings from the first phase when finalising the design for phase two. This is a significant expansion of employment services and will result in State-wide coverage of employment services for those furthest from the labour market for the first time.My officials have received advice from the Chief State Solicitor's Office and the Office of the Attorney General regarding the procurement of employment services. On the basis of these, my Department is fully satisfied that the competitive procurement of employment services is, in this instance, required by Directive 2014/24/EU.In relation to engagement with the Office of Government Procurement, for phase one of the procurement process, my Department engaged with the OGP and followed the appropriate OGP procedures.
