Social Clause
As Gaeilge: Clásal Sóisialta
Also known as: Community Benefit Clause, Social Considerations Clause
Last reviewed April 2026
A contract requirement that the supplier deliver social outcomes (apprenticeships, employment of long-term unemployed, training places) alongside the works or services.
Social clauses are commitments built into Irish public contracts to deliver social benefits in addition to the main scope. Common requirements include a percentage of labour hours filled by apprentices, the long-term unemployed, or new entrants to construction, plus reporting against those targets. Used systematically on capital works contracts above defined thresholds under the OGP's social considerations policy and Department of Public Expenditure Circular 25/2023. Performance against the clause is reportable and can be audited.
Sources and legal basis
Primary legislation and official guidance. Always confirm the current text on the source before relying on it.
Related terms
Green Public Procurement (GPP)
A policy requiring public bodies to include environmental criteria in contracts: mandatory over €50k in Ireland from 2025.
Fair Employment Clause
A contract clause requiring the supplier (and its subcontractors) to comply with employment, equality and pay legislation throughout the contract.
Capital Works Management Framework (CWMF)
The suite of standard documents (contracts, conditions of engagement, guidance) that all Irish public bodies must use for construction procurement.
Economic Operator
The EU procurement term for any supplier, contractor or service provider (an individual, firm, or consortium) that bids for or performs a public contract.
Office of Government Procurement (OGP)
Ireland's central purchasing body, established 2014: manages national frameworks and sets procurement policy.
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