Written Answers. - Computer Programmes.
Enda Kenny
Question:
78
Mr. Kenny
asked the
Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment
the estimated cost of dealing with the year 2000 computer bug problem in Ireland; if she has satisfied herself that in dealing with this matter that there will not be an undue drop in growth and productivity as companies direct resources to fix the problem; and if she will make a statement on the matter.
[10803/98]
Enda Kenny
Question:
79
Mr. Kenny
asked the
Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment
if she has satisfied herself with arrangements being put in place to deal with the year 2000 computer bug; and her views on the attention level being paid by Irish firms to being in a state of readiness to deal with the matter.
[10806/98]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 78 and 79 together.
It is a matter for each individual business and other users of computer systems to assess the implications of the year 2000 on their systems and to determine the solution.
They have no way of preventing or avoiding the costs associated with solving the problem. The level of cost and the economic impact 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 and city enterprise boards throughout the country. This leaflet suggests initial steps to be taken to enable industries 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, earlier today, I launched a further awareness campaign, with which I have been personally involved for some time.
A further and more comprehensive brochure outlining the nature and implications of the problem and giving advice on how to go about dealing with it is, at present, being circulated to businesses both directly and indirectly, through industrial development agencies, county and city enterprise boards and chambers of commerce. I have arranged to have copies of this brochure circulated to all Deputies and Senators. 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.
Our Department, along with myself and my officials, 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 action. These interests have agreed to support the Government's campaign and I have established a steering committee representing a range of relevant business organisations and State agencies to oversee the campaign.
