Vol. 531 No. 1
87 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Finance 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. [5111/01]
My Department has a comprehensive policy covering the use of computer facilities. It covers, for example, the issues of security, strict procedures to prevent against viruses, prohibition of the downloading or distribution of inappropriate or offensive material, monitoring of sites visited, etc. Staff are reminded that all information stored on the Department's computer facilities is the property of the Department.
The policy was circulated to all staff in March 2000. A copy of the relevant office notice has been forwarded to the Deputy. Before staff are provided with Internet access they must confirm in writing that they have read and understood the guidelines and will adhere to them. When virus alerts occur, all staff are notified and reminded of their obligations under the policy. The policy is subject to ongoing review in the light of usage trends and the impact of Internet access on the Department's networks. In this context my Department is about to put in place further controls in relation to downloading material from e-mails.
