Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 15 Dec 1998

Vol. 498 No. 4

Written Answers. - Computer Programmes.

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

331 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government the extent of his Department's preparedness for the year 2000 problem, including agencies for which he is responsible; the amount of money contained in this year's departmental Estimates for dealing with the problem; the number of additional staff taken on to assist year 2000 work including any outside consultants involved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27231/98]

Minister for the Environment and Local Government (Mr. Dempsey)

My Department has had a year 2000 remedial programme in place since July 1997. This programme addresses such difficulties that are likely to arise in relation to information technology systems, telephone and communications facilities and office equipment and plant. I have also established a committee to monitor remedial programmes in bodies under the aegis of my Department. Subject to the completion of these programmes I do not expect the millennium bug to have any significant effect on the work of my Department.

In relation to year 2000 remedial work expenditure of the order of £130,000 is projected to be met from my Department's Estimate for this year. The bulk of this expenditure relates to a small team of consultants employed for year 2000 projects. There have been no additional staff taken on in my Department as a result of year 2000 remedial work. Year 2000 projects are being completed using existing staff resources in my Department and the Local Government Computer Services Board.