Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour)
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147. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills to outline his plans to implement the findings of a report (details supplied) into the operation and organisation of Quality and Qualifications Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44777/17]

Richard Bruton (Dublin Bay North, Fine Gael)
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An independent external review of the current organisational structure of Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI) was completed by Clarion Consulting Ltd in December 2016. The purpose of the review was to identify a more appropriate staffing structure that will enable QQI to fulfil its statutory responsibilities and to communicate effectively both internally and externally.

My Department supports the implementation of the Organisational Review and has taken a number of measures in conjunction with QQI towards this objective.

An Organisational Review Steering Group has been established to coordinate and oversee the implementation of the change management process within QQI. The Steering Group has had three meetings to date with the next meeting scheduled for early November 2017.

A Change Management Consultant was also recruited in September 2017 to assist QQI in embedding the necessary features to support the implementation of the recommendations arising from the review.

In addition, an IR Consultative Forum has been established within QQI to ensure that the appropriate mechanisms are in place for communication and active engagement on change and progress with QQI staff and management.

My Department is continuing to engage with QQI’s Executive and Board to support further progress on the recommendations made in the Clarion Report.