David Stanton
Question:150 Mr. Stanton asked the Taoiseach the measures the Government intends to take to create and implement a national e-payments strategy; the timetable for same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17140/02]
Written Answers. - Computerisation Programme.
The Government is committed to progressing a national e-payments strategy. The objective is to develop a framework for making optimal use of electronic payment mechanisms in the economy, in support of wider e-business and e-government objectives, having regard to both existing and evolving e-payment technology solutions.
An interdepartmental e-payments strategy steering group currently convened by the Department of the Taoiseach recently identified the need for engagement of consultancy expertise to support the overall process. The proposed consultancy is being taken forward under the aegis of the Information Society Commission in the context of its role as an independent advisory body to Government. It is intended that this will lead to early production of a report that will clearly capture the value of a national e-payments strategy and scope out alternative policy options that might be considered by Government in this context.
Stakeholder engagement will underpin this process. A request for tender issued on Wednesday, 11 September 2002, through the public sector procurement portal http://www.etenders.gov.ie. A final report is due to be available by the end of November 2002.