Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 19 July 2012
469 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he has sought or received any communication directly or through the regulator in regard to the protection and security of IT throughout the country with particular reference to recent experience in the banking sector; if it is expected that cyber protection is likely to receive a higher priority; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36885/12]
View answerThe management of all aspects of any organisations IT systems is a matter primarily for the relevant organisation itself. Where the organisation operates in a regulated sector there may be a duty for that organisation to report any incidents in relation to the lack of performance of their IT network to their regulator.
With respect to the recent experiences in the banking sector I believe the problem originated with an implementation of a software upgrade and that it was not related to any cyber incident. I understand that the banking sector, in 2006, established a forum to discuss and share information on cyber threats. This forum reflects the priority being given to cyber protection. I also understand that the banking industry have organised a number of conferences and structured exercises where cyber threats and incidents are discussed and response plans are tested.
The issue of cyber security is also being addressed by the European Commission. The Commission is currently bring forward proposals for an EU strategy on cyber security and a new EU Regulation aimed at harmonising cyber capabilities across all Member States. My Department will be working closely with the Commission in this regard. My Department also proposes to publish a national strategy on cyber security later this year.
