Thomas Pringle (Donegal, Independent)
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81. To ask the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection her views on a report (details supplied) commissioned by her Department which found value for money in local employment services despite reduced funding in recent years; her plans to reconfigure public employment services in 2020; if the value of community not-for-profit employment services will be preserved over private sector models; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8095/19]

Regina Doherty (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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My Department commissioned Indecon to complete an independent, evidence–based evaluation of the effectiveness and efficiency and of the governance of the Local Employment Services and Job Clubs.  The report was published in January 2019.

The key findings of the reports have been noted and any actions taken on foot of this report will help to ensure that my Department continue to deliver a quality service to its customers whilst also ensuring that taxpayers are getting value for money.  My Department is continually engaged in ensuring all contracted public employment services are fit for purpose.

The current contracts for the Local Employment Services and Job Clubs are due to expire at end-2019.  No formal tendering process for 2020 is currently underway and no final decisions have been made in this regard.

My Department will continue to consult with the relevant stakeholders to ensure that any future contracted public employment services give the best possible service for those who wish to return to the labour market.