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Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 21 Apr 1998

Vol. 489 No. 6

Written Answers. - Computerisation Programme.

Bernard Allen

Question:

236 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Defence the computerisation programme, if any, undertaken in the Defence Forces on an annual basis from 1985; the objectives of the computerisation programme; and the terms of reference of the computerisation programme. [8824/98]

Computerisation planning in the Defence Forces commenced formally in 1988 with the publication of the first strategic IT plan. This plan covered the period to end-1996 at which stage it was replaced by the current strategic IT plan which covers the period 1997 to 1999.

Reflecting the terms of reference for the production of the plans, the overall objective has been to provide information technology support to the Defence Forces in the execution of their statutory roles, and particularly in the context of the ongoing re-organisation of the Defence Forces.
In the period since 1988, IT management and operating structures have been put in place as has a formal IT establishment including a high level joint civil-military IT steering committee.
The Directorate of Communication and Information Services, which is responsible for IT and telecommunications services in the Defence Forces, utilises industry standard practices for the management, development and operation of IT systems to Defence Forces requirements. Projects undertaken in the period to date include: Implementation of a comprehensive National Defence Network (NDN). This project is ongoing and utilises Government Telecommunications Network, military microwave, leased line and satellite technology. Information systems including: (1) Personnel Management Systems — Core functionality was installed in 1992. Enhancements and extra functionality has been added to the system since then. (2) Inventory Management System — This project commenced in 1989 and the first version was delivered in 1991. (3) Procurement System — This project commenced in 1994 and was completed in 1995. (4) Management Information System — This system commenced in 1993 and the first version was delivered in 1994. It provides timely and accurate management information to assist decision making. (5) Unit Computing System — This project commenced in 1997 and is ongoing. Certain modules have been delivered and the system will provide Units with an administrative system that will cater for general routine administration, stores and training and operations. (6) Fisheries — This project is modular and commenced in 1988. It is part completed and provides satellite communication links for data transfer, fishery protection database, a ship-borne expert system for EU fishery legislation and a prototype trawler tracking system. (7) Air Corps Maintenance Management System — This system has been implemented for certain types of aircraft and technical stores. Office Automation — This project is ongoing. At this stage, all units and some sub-units have a computerised office system. Training — Training in computer skill is well established. Overseas — unit computerised office systems are currently in place in Labanon where a local area network has also been created.
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