Vol. 536 No. 2
75 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Defence the way in which the inventory management system operates in his Department; the areas covered by the system; the cost of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13809/01]
The inventory management system, IMS, is currently being implemented across the national defence network as a computer based system. The system runs on an Oracle database version 8.1 using Forms version 6.0. The underlying hardware platform is a Compaq TRU 64. The system is currently accessible by 450 users in 25 locations. The scope of the IMS covers procurement, subhead management, requisitioning, ordering, invoicing, tax clearance certificates and supplier information. Inventory relating to aircraft and Reserve Defence Forces is outside the scope of the IMS. The estimated cost of the project over ten years is approximately £3.5 million, divided between hardware, software development and licences.
The system provides the Defence Forces with the ability to carry out its logistic and supply function in an effective and efficient manner, freeing resources for other duties.
