Although it is great news that the RFT has now been approved, we experienced some delays during this stage. Originally, we had proposed to procure the IT system via a Framework Agreement. However, after detailed legal scrutiny of this Agreement by the Chief State Solicitors Office, we concluded that it was not suitable for this particular development and, accordingly, an alternative approach is now being progressed. This approach entails a full open tender procurement process which is, by its nature, lengthier and more complex than procuring services under a Framework Agreement. The Chief State Solicitors Office gave us priority and has worked intensively with us to ensure that a rigorous, quality procurement process is conducted in the shortest possible timeframe. My department, in turn, is working closely with Pobal regarding the subsequent awarding and management of the contract.