Carol Nolan (Laois-Offaly, Independent)
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307. To ask the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform further to Parliamentary Question No. 287 of 15 September 2021, if tenders for the courses and training provided were issued; if so, the persons who responded; the criteria by which the course provider was ultimately chosen; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46196/21]

Michael McGrath (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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Further to my response to Parliamentary Question No. 287 of 15th September last, I wish to advise the Deputy that my Department's participation in Common Purpose Ireland leadership programmes is part of the broader continuous professional development framework for staff in my Department. This includes attendance at learning and development courses, seminars and conferences, membership of professional bodies and the completion of various academic courses. The professional development framework is subject to ongoing review and evaluation to ensure it offers value for money, meets the strategic business requirements of my Department and the professional development needs of staff.

Participation in Common Purpose Ireland leadership programmes facilitates exposure to senior level leadership challenges not offered elsewhere. Given this, the contract with Common Purpose Ireland was awarded without the use of a competitive procedure, in line with EU Directives and national policies on procurement.