SICAP funding tender
McDonald criticises the SICAP tender process and its potential job and service cuts, while the Tánaiste says it remains ongoing and any debate should be arranged through the Whips.
Second, regarding the issues the Deputy raised concerning SICAP, the Minister inherited a situation where there was a tender process in place.
Comment on this
As I understand it, that tender process is still under way and is due to conclude in the near future. As the Deputy will understand, it would not be advisable to comment on any detail of that tender process while it is under way. However, when the tender process has concluded, it will be a matter for the Whips if they want to arrange a debate. The best mechanism is for the Deputy or her party Whip to take that up with the other Whips.
Comment on this
There has been no consultation with the workers in the sector. She just brushed that off. It is astonishing for the Labour Party.