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Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 25 Nov 1998

Vol. 497 No. 3

Written Answers - Computer Programmes.

Deirdre Clune

Question:

128 Ms Clune asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will guarantee that life supporting equipment in hospitals will not break down on 1 January 2000 due to the millennium bug; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25066/98]

I am concerned about the possible risks to health and safety of both clients and staff of the health services posed by the millennium bug. My Department is making every effort to counter these risks. My Department has issued comprehensive guidelines to all health agencies setting out a recommended approach to dealing with this problem. The guidelines describe a risk management strategy, whereby potential hazards are identified and prioritised according to the seriousness of their potential impact. The guidelines set out a strategy for taking appropriate remedial action and also specify a requirement for contingency planning to cater for any occurrence of unforeseen failures. My Department is constantly monitoring developments in agencies to ensure year 2000 readiness.

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