The new OGP Framework Agreements proposing radical changes in the procurement of public sector consultancy were set out at a seminar in Dublin on March 25th.

Procurement of services, including management consultancy, will be centralised across the public sector with significant savings targeted by OGP (Office of Government Procurement) from the consolidation of work packages.  Most consultancy projects will be procured under new Framework Agreements and only approved practices will be able to participate in work procured under them for a period of four years.

The timeline envisages tender invites being issued for the Framework Agreements in two tranches – for the Health Sector in Q2 2015 and for all other government bodies in Q3 2015.  The Agreements will operate for a period of four years.

OGP seek responses on their proposals by 8th April.  A copy of the seminar presentation is available here and of the Seminar Response Document here.

IMCA will be making a response on behalf of the profession and individual practices may wish to make their own response also.