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Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 21 Feb 2001

Vol. 531 No. 1

Written Answers. - Internet Access.

Denis Naughten

Question:

65 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs 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. [5107/01]

The use of the Internet and e-mail is under ongoing review, in particular in relation to the security measures necessary to protect both the Department's IT network and its staff. Guidelines are in place for the use of the IT system by staff. Messages have been circulated to all staff outlining the parameters for appropriate use of the IT system which is deemed to be for official use. Inappropriate use of official resources is a disciplinary matter. These guidelines are supported by the deployment of software to minimise the potential receipt of inappropriate material.

My Department is currently finalising a formal policy on the use of the computer network, including e-mail and access to the Internet. The proposed policy has been the subject of internal discussions, most recently with the partnership committee. It is intended that this policy will be introduced on a pilot basis with effect on 1 March 2001.

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