What is pool recruitment?
When a number of people have successfully gone through the recruitment process for positions that are similar, their details are kept so they can be considered for appointment to fill future permanent or temporary vacancies. It’s like being on standby.
How does the pool operate?
Pool recruitment is in accordance with the Public Sector Management (Breaches of Public Sector Standards) Regulations 2005 and the Employment Standard.
Generally, a pool operates for a 6-month or 12-month period from the date of initial placement into the pool (unless otherwise specified in the job advertisement).
Appointment from a pool to a vacancy is not automatic. Perhaps the position offered to you is not at your preferred location or it is a part time opportunity and you are looking for full time employment. You will also need to pass the pre-employment medical if that applies to the role.
If a pool applicant is deemed suitable and still available to fill the new vacant position, then a Request to Employ authorisation form is submitted to the delegated Director, requesting approval to appoint the pool applicant into the vacant role.
Pool applicants do not have a ‘right of review.’ If no pool applicants are deemed suitable or available, then the position may be advertised.
If the position is re-advertised, applicants in the pool will need to re-apply to be considered along with the other applicants responding to the advertisement.
How will I know if I have been appointed to a pool?
All applicants will be advised in writing of the outcome of their application at the conclusion of the recruitment process. You will either receive advice that you
- have been recommended for a position,
- recommended for appointment to a pool, or
- that you were unsuccessful for the advertised position and not appointed to a pool.
- It is important to note that if you are appointed to a pool, you are not deemed an employee (if external to the public sector), nor promoted (if an existing public sector employee), until such time as you are appointed to a specific position in the MCB.
Can I submit a breach claim in regard to pool recruitment?
Yes, however, only during the 4 day breach / appeals period.
You will also be advised of the review period in which you can obtain feedback on your application and submit a breach of standards claim.
Claims cannot be accepted after this review period, and do not apply to any future appointment from a pool to a vacancy.
