EPS in the centralised procurement model

Procurement is a key element of the Government's Public Service Reform agenda and is a very significant portion of overall spending.

The State buys everything from pens and paper, through to vehicle fleets and surgical equipment in the public and private sector. In fact, we spend €8.5bn every year on goods and services. In this context, it is essential that the Public Service operates in a co-ordinated and efficient way and delivers sustainable savings for the taxpayer.

The EPS commenced operations in 2015 under the centralised procurement model and has responsibility for sourcing goods and services in its designated categories on behalf of the Public Service. Through the EPS, OGP and the sector-retained procurement functions, the Public Service speaks with “one voice” to the market for each category of expenditure, eliminating duplication and taking advantage of the scale of public procurement to best effect. This move is in line with best practice in the public and private sector and is part of the continuing reform programme being driven by the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform.

EPS provides a sustainable, value for money, professional and compliant procurement sourcing service through the employment of whole life-cycle cost methodology in its work and a commitment to the customer in the delivery of its services.

The Department of Education and Skills funds and supports EPS to deliver on its programme of work and strategy into the future. The EPS has both operational and strategic roles for the Education Sector.

Under the OGP category management model; the EPS is responsible for the sourcing of Laboratory/Research Diagnostics, Services & Equipment, Agriculture and Veterinary Goods & Services, Library Goods & Services.

EPS also has responsibility for implementing policies and procedures for national procurement across the education sector.

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