Research services for a study/evaluation of the Gaeltacht Youth Work Pilot Project

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1. At a glance

2. Scope of Work

The tender seeks research services to conduct an in-depth study and evaluation of the Gaeltacht Youth Work Pilot Project. The project aims to assess the effectiveness and impact of youth work initiatives within the Gaeltacht regions. The contractor will be responsible for the following activities:

• Research Design and Methodology: Develop a comprehensive research framework that aligns with the objectives outlined in Appendix 1 of the RFT. This includes setting out the approach and methodology to be used in the study.
• Data Collection: Gather qualitative and quantitative data from various stakeholders involved in the Gaeltacht Youth Work Pilot Project. This may involve surveys, interviews, and focus groups.
• Data Analysis: Analyze the collected data to identify trends, outcomes, and areas for improvement. The analysis should be thorough and provide actionable insights.
• Reporting: Produce detailed reports that summarize the findings of the study. These reports should include an evaluation of the project's impact and recommendations for future initiatives.
• Presentation of Findings: Present the research findings to Údarás Na Gaeltachta and other relevant stakeholders. This may involve preparing presentations and attending meetings.
• Project Management: Ensure the project is completed within the specified timeframe and budget. This includes regular updates to the contracting authority and adherence to project milestones.

The work is expected to be completed over a period of up to 3 years, with a possible extension of 12 months. The contractor must ensure compliance with all relevant regulations and standards throughout the project.

3. Background & buyer context

This tender is issued by Údarás Na Gaeltachta to evaluate the Gaeltacht Youth Work Pilot Project, a strategic initiative aimed at enhancing youth work services in the Gaeltacht regions. The project aligns with broader government efforts to support cultural and linguistic preservation in these areas. The evaluation will provide insights into the effectiveness of current programs and inform future policy decisions. There is no incumbent contractor mentioned, suggesting this may be a new initiative or a re-evaluation of existing services.

4. Eligibility & selection criteria

• Turnover requirement: Evidence of a minimum turnover of €200,000 per annum for the past three years.
• Insurance:
• Employer’s Liability: €13m (not relevant if a sole trader)
• Public Liability: €6.5m
• Professional Indemnity: €250,000
• Cyber Insurance: €1m
• Certifications: Not specified for this tender.
• Past experience: Demonstrated evidence of two contracts or projects of a similar kind and nature in the past five years.
• Personnel: At least one key person must have five years’ experience in implementing similar research.
• Geographic / facility constraints: Not specified for this tender.

5. Award criteria & scoring

The evaluation follows the Most Economically Advantageous Tender (MEAT) approach, with a 70/30 quality/price split.

6. Submission requirements

• Method statement / response document: Use the named template, no page limit specified.
• CVs: Required for key personnel, no page count specified.
• Pricing schedule: Must follow the format in Appendix 2.
• Case studies: Two required, demonstrating similar projects.
• Declarations: ESPD, Bona Fides, Tax clearance, Conflict of Interest.
• Mandatory site visit: Not applicable.
• Submission portal: eTenders, ensure compliance with format rules.

7. Key dates & process

8. Contract terms that matter

The contract is for a term of 3 years, with the possibility of a 12-month extension. Payment terms are not explicitly detailed but will adhere to the Services Contract in Appendix 5. Key performance indicators (KPIs) and service level agreements (SLAs) are not specified. Liquidated damages or penalty regimes are not mentioned. Intellectual property ownership and sub-contracting rules are not detailed. No parent-company guarantee or bond requirements are specified.

9. Risks, red flags & unusuals

The tender specifies a fixed budget of €100,000, which may limit the scope for additional work or unforeseen costs. The requirement for a minimum turnover of €200,000 per annum may exclude smaller firms. The need for specific insurance levels could be a barrier for some bidders. The absence of detailed KPIs or SLAs might lead to ambiguities in performance expectations.

10. SME fit assessment

This tender is suitable for small to medium-sized enterprises with experience in research and evaluation projects. Firms should have a turnover exceeding €200,000 and the ability to meet the specified insurance requirements. Consortium bids and sub-contracting are allowed, which may facilitate participation by smaller firms. Bid preparation is likely to require several days, given the need for detailed documentation and evidence of past projects. The presence of an incumbent is not mentioned, suggesting a potentially open field for new entrants.

11. Where to dig deeper

• Source RFT filename: RFT_research study GA_27.04.pdf
• eTenders CFT ID: Not specified
• Contact email or clarification portal: Use the messaging facility on www.etenders.gov.ie
• Important attachments:
• Appendix 1 — Requirements and Specifications
• Appendix 2 — Pricing Schedule
• Appendix 3 — Tenderer’s Statement