Trevor Sargent
Question:226 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will report on his Department's management of the year 2000 problem both within his Department and in respect of the 90 bodies under its aegis. [24383/98].
Written Answers - Computer Programmes.
My Department has ensured that all products purchased since 1997 are year 2000 compliant. In addition, my Department is currently implementing a major programme of work designed to ensure that all its existing IT systems and all of the hardware and software components of its IT infrastructure will continue to work through the changeover to the next millennium. The programme of work also deals with the potential impact of the millennium bug on non-IT equipment with embedded electronics, for example, phone systems, lifts, security systems, etc.
My Department's programme of work is progressing well towards the goal of ensuring that any adverse effects of the millennium bug on the Department's operations will be minimal.
With regard to bodies under the aegis of my Department, status reports are sought from 90 bodies every two months and these form the basis of bi-monthly progress reports to Government. It would appear that a number of bodies, particularly larger bodies, are making good progress at present, but continuing close monitoring of the general situation will be necessary.