Information and Communications Technology Issues

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 21 March 2013

Thursday, 21 March 2013

Ceisteanna (118)

Sean Fleming

Ceist:

118. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if he has considered the use of, or implemented, integrated voice response systems in his Department's phone systems or in the phone systems of agencies within his remit; if the staff and salary cost savings which might arise have been assessed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14505/13]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform

As with all technologies, my Department uses Integrated or Interactive Voice Response (IVR) systems in those areas where it makes sense and provides value to both the business and the customer. While IVR of itself does not contribute substantially to salary savings, it does, in certain circumstances, help to streamline the user experience so that services are better delivered.