Updated: Updated public sector training sessions.
The European Parliament adopted the 2014 EU Procurement Directives on Wednesday 15 January 2014. These directives are due to come into force in March 2014 and EU member states will have 2 years to implement them in national legislation.
The government is aiming to transpose (implement) these directives quickly so that the UK can benefit as soon as possible from the improved flexibilities they offer. Here we will keep you up to date on progress in Brussels, UK transposition of the directives and where to access free training.
Progress in Brussels
The European Parliament voted to approve the 2014 Directives on 15 January 2014. The next stage is for Council to formally adopt them and confirm their entry into force in March 2014. The directives also affect concessions (partnerships between the public sector and mostly private companies that maintain infrastructure or provide important services) and utilities (water, energy, transport and postal services).
Implementing the directives
Where the directives allow member states a choice on whether or how to implement a particular provision, Cabinet Office have issued discussion papers and will consider responses. For more information please see Procurement Policy Note 05/13. We will launch a formal consultation on the draft implementing regulations in due course.
Training
Cabinet Office is developing a free package of supporting materials with guidance on the new regulations. This includes working with sector leads to coordinate a series of 1-day training sessions for public sector organisations. We are pleased to announce the first training dates for below with details of how to register. We will be releasing further dates in due course. E-learning resources and handbooks will also be available here later in 2014.
Book a training session
Please complete the respective application form for your chosen date and send this to EURegistration@cabinet-office.gsi.gov.uk with the venue name and date in the subject line.
Public sector training
Voluntary sector training
Training sessions are being organised specifically for contracting authorities in the voluntary sector. We will confirm dates shortly.
Utilities
Training sessions for contracting entities under the Utilities Directive will take place on:
- 22 July 2014
- 25 July 2014
All sessions take place at Severn Trent Water Limited, Severn Trent Centre, 2 St Johns Street, Coventry, CV1 2LZ
Northern Ireland public sector
Training sessions have been organised for contracting authorities in Northern Ireland
- 11 June 2014
- 12 June 2014
All sessions take place in Belfast. The venue will be confirmed.
Wales public sector
Value Wales will coordinate training sessions for Wales professionals and further information will be available shortly.
About the training
Please note that places on these sessions will be limited and we would generally expect only 1 delegate per organisation: that delegate can then use the materials to brief their colleagues. If you need more than 1 place please let us know and we will do our best to accommodate you. Because of the limited number of places, failure to attend a booked course may result in you not being offered an alternative date.
Delegates need to make own arrangements for lunch and refreshments as these are not provided: please check with the venue for available facilities.