Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 7 Oct 1998

Vol. 494 No. 5

Written Answers. - Computer Programmes.

Proinsias De Rossa

Question:

16 Proinsias De Rossa asked the Taoiseach if he will make a statement on the progress of the working group within his Department to examine and assess problems for information systems in regard to the year 2000; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17509/98]

John Bruton

Question:

17 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Taoiseach if he has replied to the open letter he received from a person (details supplied) regarding the year 2000 problem; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17561/98]

John Bruton

Question:

18 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Taoiseach the expenditure to date by his Department in tackling the year 2000 problem. [17570/98]

The Taoiseach

I propose to take Questions Nos. 16 to 18 together.

I am satisfied that the approach being taken by my Department to deal with our year 2000 issues is effective and that satisfactory progress is being made.

To date, a number of systems have been upgraded or replaced. Of the £20,000 estimated for direct year 2000 costs, a total of £8,400 has been spent to date by my Department. The situation will continue to be closely monitored by senior management in my Department and by the Year 2000 Interdepartmental Monitoring Committee.

I confirm that a reply has been sent to the person referred to by Deputy John Bruton. I point out that responsibility for dealing with the year 2000 problem rests primarily with the Minister for Finance, for the measures being taken within the public service, and with the Minister of State at the Department of Education and Science, for measures to assist in raising awareness and guidelines on tackling the issue in the wider business community.