John Bruton
Question:5 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Taoiseach if he will make a statement on the way in which information systems in his Department dealt with millennium bug issues in the crossover from 1999 to 2000. [1468/00]
Ceisteanna–Questions. - Computer Programmes.
John Bruton
Question:6 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Taoiseach whether his Department's contingency plan for testing for the Y2K bug was sufficient; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1701/00]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 5 and 6 together.
My Department did not encounter any millennium bug issues in the crossover from 1999 to 2000 as intensive preparations had been made by staff of the Department to identify and remedy in advance any Y2K problems. This effort was successful. It was, therefore, not necessary to activate the Department's contingency plans.
Does the Taoiseach agree all Members were concerned that a problem might arise? I extend our congratulations to all those who made a major and successful effort to overcome difficulties which may have been threatened. On reflection, does the Taoiseach think the difficulties were as real as were portrayed or was a certain amount of hype generated by people anxious to sell their services as individuals who could solve a problem one did not realise one had, but which they were convinced one had?
It was a bit of both. There were some problems internationally but, thankfully, they did not cause enormous damage. The hard work done to deal with such technical problems was successful. Many problems arose but none was too serious. This aspect must be taken into account.
However, on the other side, the hype was unreal. As I mentioned previously, during an interview with CNN in the United States in November I said it was nonsense that people were being advised to stock up on food and to stay indoors. The interviewer asked me if I would be prepared to make a clip to be shown on 1 January and I said "yes". I said most of it was nonsense and that I was happy for a clip to be shown on 1 January. I do not know if it was shown but the problem was overstated.
It is on the record now anyway.
Did the Taoiseach put a few bob on an each way bet?
It is on record. However, it was not all hype. A number of issues had to be addressed, particularly with regard to old technology. I saw a list of those matters and they were serious, particularly with regard to embedded chips. If there had not been hype, people would not have taken those issues seriously. Deputy Bruton is aware that many small companies and industries changed equipment, which probably avoided many of the problems.