ESF Information Memo 01/21 - COVID-19 update

Dear Project Promoter,

Following the recent government announcement on the extension of restrictions designed to manage the ongoing effects of COVID-19, I would like to take this opportunity to write to you and remind you that myself and my team remain committed to providing every support possible to allow projects, staff and participants to deliver on their projects and stay safe in these difficult times.

A number of projects have contacted me seeking advice on returning to home-working for staff and to online learning for participants. As always, decision-making in this area remains with your project board and/or senior management. I would however urge you to follow Public Health Service advice at all times and ensure that actions taken are in line with this.

Policies and procedures developed in response to COVID-19 restrictions by the Managing Authority in relation to the processing of payments and performance management arrangements will remain in place during these current restrictions unless projects are specifically notified to the contrary. Projects are reminded that the audit trail of any COVID-19 related absences should include a clear rationale for any decisions made.

I will be on leave until Monday 11 January and would like to take this opportunity to wish you and your families a very happy and healthy new year. Should you wish to discuss any aspects of your proposed arrangement to deal with the new restrictions please forward a request to the performance monitoring helpdesk at: esfperformancemonitoring@economy-ni.gov.uk

Regards,

Annie McGowan
Head of ESF Project Delivery Branch