asked the Minister for Social Welfare the reasons for, and the background to, her decision to award contracts for up to 200 VDU's from two foreign sources, when Irish companies could just as satisfactorily meet her needs.
Written Answers. - Department of Social Welfare Computerisation Programme.
17.
My Department is at present implementing a major programme of computerisation aimed at improved levels of service to the public while at the same time developing additional safeguards and fraud control features. Part of this programme involves increasing the number of visual display units — VDU's — from 600 to 800 during 1986. While many of these will be used in the headquarters buildings in Dublin, some will be installed in employment exchanges and information offices around the country to provide quick access to claim information for claimants.
In view of the critical nature of the Department's systems and the expansion of the country-wide network, other factors, in addition to cost and origin of the VDU's, had to be carefully considered. Products of proven reliability capable of being maintained on a countrywide basis were required. The Department is satisfied that the products chosen best met the various criteria.
The normal tendering procedures were followed. All the companies invited to tender have bases in Ireland and in fact both successful companies are substantial employers in this country.