Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry, Independent)
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132. To ask the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection if she will address a matter regarding a nationwide local employment service (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [50173/21]

Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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My Department is now at an advanced stage in its first phase of a two-phase procurement of new employment services. Phase two of this process, to commence shortly, will see the Regional Employment Service model rolled out across the State. It will take on board the learnings of the first phase. This is a significant expansion of employment services and will result in State-wide coverage of employment services for those furthest from the labour market for the first time.

My officials have examined the ILDN’s proposals to extend the current LES model across its 49 members in order to provide a State-wide service. While a well-meaning proposal, the State cannot simply adopt the proposals of certain service-providers for an expanded service in line with its demands. Legal procurement does not and cannot work in this manner.

Nonetheless, I wish to make it clear that both I and my Department have maintained good relations with ILDN throughout the process, while also engaging with independent service-providers not affiliated with ILDN.

The expansion of changes to employment services being implemented through a two-phase procurement process have been well signposted for some years and my Department has undertaken extensive consultation with existing service providers.