I am advised by my officials that they have engaged with this provider in relation to the invoices to which the Deputy refers. Regarding five of these, once valid invoices are received, these five invoices will be reviewed and paid as soon as possible. I am further advised that there is a technical issue with another of the Invoices and the provider has been asked to amend it. The remaining invoice is currently being processed.
Whilst there have been some delays in payment due to the very large volume of invoices received, over the past few months my Department has greatly improved processing times. The Department is also working towards additional automation in the system which is expected to further streamline the process.