Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 21 Feb 2001

Vol. 531 No. 1

Written Answers. - Internet Access.

Denis Naughten

Question:

157 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if, in view of an article in a newspaper (details supplied) on 5 February 2001, he will state the steps he has taken to ensure that the use of his Department's e-mail and Internet facilities are properly regulated; if a policy on the use of these facilities exists; when the policy was last updated; when the policy was last circulated to staff; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5116/01]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. O'Donoghue)

My Department has a policy in place to regulate the use of the Department's computer network, e-mail and Internet. The policy was last updated and circulated to staff in January 2001.

This policy addresses the ownership and proper use of my Department's computer network. Downloading or transmitting text, audio or video material which can be construed as sexist, racist, bullying, harassing or discriminatory is prohibited.