Michael Bell
Question:20 Mr. Bell asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the measures, if any, she has implemented to prevent the year 2000 computer problem imposing large costs on Irish business. [7692/98]
Written Answers. - Computer Programmes.
It is a matter for each individual business and other users of computer systems to assess the implications of the year 2000, on their particular systems and to determine the solution. There is no way of preventing or avoiding the costs associated with solving the problem. The level of cost in any particular case will depend on the extent of the problem. It is important however that Irish businesses address the issue as the cost of ignoring the problem, could ultimately be far greater than the cost of solving the problem at this stage.
Where the Government can help is in raising awareness of the issue and by providing guidelines to businesses, to help them tackle the problem.
Approximately 100,000 copies of an awareness leaflet on the "Year 2000" computer problem, prepared by our Department in June 1997, with the assistance of Forfás and IBEC, have been distributed to industry, chambers of commerce and county enterprise boards, CEBs, throughout the country. This leaflet suggests the initial steps to be taken, to enable industry's IT systems deal with the date change.
Some recent research on the year 2000 problem has indicated that, while there is a high level of awareness of the problem, the level of action to deal with the problem, particularly among SMEs, still falls below what is required. Accordingly, a further awareness campaign will be undertaken, with which I intend to be personally involved. A further and more comprehensive brochure, outlining the nature and implications of the problem and giving advice on how to go about addressing, it is in an advanced stage of preparation in our Department. This brochure will be circulated to businesses both directly and indirectly, through industrial development agencies, county enterprise boards and chambers of commerce. In addition, a series of regional public meetings will be held to highlight awareness of the problem and, in particular, the urgency of the need to address the issue immediately.
Both myself and officials of our Department have also had discussions with representatives of the financial sector, the insurance industry, the accountancy bodies and others, including the IT sector, to seek their assistance in highlighting the need for Irish businesses to take urgent action. I will in this connection be appointing a broadly representative steering committee to oversee the awareness campaign. I would hope to commence the campaign during the month of May.