Jan O'Sullivan (Limerick City, Labour) | Oireachtas source

All school building projects which are funded from public moneys, are required to use the forms of contract provided under the capital works management framework which includes a suite of public works contracts, standard conditions of engagement, model forms, suitability assessment questionnaires and guidance notes published by the Office of Government Procurement, OGP.

As the Deputy is aware, my Department appointed Contractors Administration Services, CAS, to conduct random audits on school building projects. CAS has been requested to carry out a full monitoring service for the duration of the contract at the school in question. Should irregularities be uncovered in terms of non-compliance with relevant employment law, enforcement and prosecution falls under the remit of the National Employment Rights Authority, to which my Department will report any discrepancies found. If the audit uncovers any other matters of concern regarding tax compliance or social welfare fraud, such matters will be referred to either the Revenue Commissioners and-or the Department of Social Protection, as appropriate.

I met all unions representing construction workers involved in the delivery of my Department's school building programme, including officials from Unite, late last year.

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