Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The first request for tender is a means of expanding the services. We are not reducing any services. However, there will be learnings from the first request for tender process. If tweaks or changes are needed for the second request for tender, I will be happy to make those. I am also happy to engage with the Deputies on the matter.

At the end of the day, I want to ensure we provide the best possible service for people who are long-term unemployed. Many people have been out of work since the pandemic unemployment payment, PUP, was first introduced in March 2020. I am sure they are feeling a certain trepidation about returning to the workforce. Their jobs may no longer be there for them. They need support and encouragement. I want to ensure they get all the supports they can to help them back into the workplace. I will be happy to talk to the stakeholders once we have completed the request for tender process. I assure the Deputies that the officials in my Department have genuinely engaged with every single provider to which the contract has been issued.

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