Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 25 November 2021
114. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Social Protection if she will provide an update on the forthcoming phase two of the tender for employment services process; the expected timeline in this regard; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [57825/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe second phase in the procuring of new employment services is currently under preparation. In phase two, the Regional Employment Services model will be rolled out throughout the rest of the State; that is a further nineteen counties. The first phase of the procurement is concerned with seven counties. The Department is currently reflecting on feedback from Phase One and amending the Request for Tender as appropriate, specifically in relation to minimum referral numbers but also looking again at issues such as up-front monetary advances to assist cash flow for potential tenderers.
There has been continuous engagement with local development companies and other relevant stakeholders in recent years. As recently as the 9th of November, my Department hosted a webinar exclusively for organisations who are interested in tendering for the procurement of employment services at which questions were taken for over an hour following a presentation, which provided detailed information on public employment services procurement.
The Request for Tenders for the Regional Employment Service and the National Employment Service will be issued before year end, with an approximate deadline of March for tenderers. It is intended that the services will be in place from July 2022.
