Multisupplier Framework for the provision of Barrister Services (2026P031)

AI-generated analysis of the documents. Check the official notice and any amendments for current submission details.

1. At a glance

2. Scope of Work

The Central Bank of Ireland seeks to establish a multisupplier framework for barrister services, divided into two lots: Senior Counsel and Junior Counsel (7+ years PQE). The framework aims to streamline the procurement of legal services by pre-qualifying barristers who can be called upon as needed.

• Framework Structure: Two lots, each with a separate framework agreement. Lot D1 for Senior Counsel and Lot D2 for Junior Counsel.
• Number of Suppliers: Up to 15 suppliers per lot.
• Framework Duration: Initial term of four years, with an option to extend by one additional year.
• Service Requirements:
• Provision of legal advice and representation in various legal matters pertinent to the Central Bank's operations.
• Compliance with the Legal Services Regulation Act 2015.
• Registration on the roll of practising barristers with the Legal Services Regulatory Authority.
• Volume of Work: No guaranteed volume; services will be procured on an as-needed basis through call-off contracts.
• Call-Off Contracts: Governed by standard terms and conditions, with specific requirements outlined per call-off.
• Insurance Requirement: Professional Indemnity Insurance with a minimum level of €1,500,000.
• Geographic Scope: Services to be provided within the Republic of Ireland.

3. Background & buyer context

The Central Bank of Ireland is procuring barrister services to ensure efficient access to legal expertise, supporting its mandate to safeguard monetary and financial stability. This framework aligns with the Central Bank's strategic objective to streamline procurement processes and ensure compliance with legal standards. The framework replaces ad-hoc procurement, providing a structured approach to accessing legal services. The procurement is driven by the need for consistent legal support in regulatory and financial matters, reflecting the Central Bank's commitment to operational efficiency and legal compliance.

4. Eligibility & selection criteria

• Turnover requirement: Not specified for this tender.
• Insurance:
• Professional Indemnity Insurance with a minimum level of €1,500,000.
• Certifications:
• Registration on the roll of practising barristers with the Legal Services Regulatory Authority.
• Past experience: Not specified for this tender.
• Personnel:
• Senior Counsel and Junior Counsel (7+ years PQE) roles.
• Geographic / facility constraints: Services to be provided within the Republic of Ireland.

5. Award criteria & scoring

The price/quality split is 30/70 (MEAT). Minimum scoring thresholds apply to both criteria.

6. Submission requirements

• Method statement / response document: Specific format as per ITT, no page limits stated.
• CVs: 2-4 pages for Senior Counsel, maximum 4 pages for Junior Counsel.
• Pricing schedule: Appendix 3 template.
• Case studies: Not specified.
• Declarations: ESPD, Tax clearance, Conflict of Interest.
• Mandatory site visit: Not applicable.
• Submission portal: eTenders, electronic post-box facility.

7. Key dates & process

8. Contract terms that matter

The framework agreement is for four years, extendable by one year. Payment terms are not specified. Key SLAs/KPIs are not detailed. Liquidated damages or penalty regimes are not mentioned. Termination clauses allow for early termination by the Central Bank. Intellectual Property ownership is not specified. Sub-contracting is allowed but must comply with the Central Bank's policies. No parent-company guarantee or bond requirements are stated.

9. Risks, red flags & unusuals

The tender specifies a high Professional Indemnity Insurance requirement (€1,500,000), which may limit participation to larger firms. The framework's lack of guaranteed work volume could pose a risk for smaller firms relying on consistent income. The geographic constraint to the Republic of Ireland may limit the bidder pool. The tender's reliance on call-off contracts introduces uncertainty regarding the volume and frequency of work.

10. SME fit assessment

This tender is suitable for legal firms with substantial experience in financial and regulatory matters, particularly those with barristers registered in Ireland. Firms must have the capacity to meet the insurance requirements and provide experienced Senior and Junior Counsel. Consortiums or sub-contracting are permitted, offering flexibility for smaller firms to participate. Bid preparation is moderate, requiring detailed CVs and pricing schedules. The presence of an incumbent is not specified, but the framework's structure suggests opportunities for multiple suppliers.

11. Where to dig deeper

• Source RFT filename: "Open OJEU Services Multisupplier Framework ITT - Barrister Services - Final.pdf"
• eTenders CFT ID: Not specified
• Contact email or clarification portal: eTenders messaging facility
• Important attachments:
• Appendix 1A — Requirements and Specifications
• Appendix 3 — Pricing Schedule
• Appendix 6 — ESPD (for all lots)