Vol. 512 No. 7
26 Mr. Bell asked the Minister for Health and Children the progress, if any, made by hospitals in dealing with potential problems arising from the Y2K bug; if he will give an assurance that patients who are in hospital over the millennium will not be jeopardised by these problems; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27061/99]
Since 1997, my Department has been working with health agencies to ensure year 2000 compliance in the health service. My Department has undertaken an overall role of co-ordinating, assisting, facilitating the sharing of information and monitoring progress. Each health agency has its own year 2000 programme in place and these are now drawing to a close. Overall, the health service year 2000 programme has represented a major national initiative. To date, I have authorised expenditure amounting to approximately £25 million for the repair or replacement of non-compliant systems and equipment. This remediation process has now been completed, except for a small number of outstanding issues. I am satisfied that these issues will be resolved in time and, in any event, that they do not pose a threat to patient safety.
Best practices in this field also demands the development of contingency plans as an added guarantee. Accordingly, health agencies are in the process of finalising and testing comprehensive contingency plans which will be put into effect in the event of problems arising.
In summary, my objectives are to ensure that there is no risk to the health and safety of health service clients and staff and that there is minimal disruption to normal services arising from the Y2K bug. I am confident that these objectives will be achieved.
