Verona Murphy (Wexford, Independent) | Oireachtas source

My thanks to everyone for coming to take part. I have questions that are possibly for Mr. Ó hÓbáin and Mr. Griffin. I wish to say at the outset that in any engagement I have had with the Department I have always found the officials helpful. I hope that continues.

My question is on cybersecurity. I am concerned that we do not have a budget fit to meet the demands of the national cybersecurity strategy. My question is pertinent to today. How vulnerable is our health system in the event of a cyber attack? Has there been a cyber attack recently? What is the most recent attack? Can the officials comment on the recent cyber attacks in Australia and New Zealand?

I compliment and concur with the remarks of Mr. Griffin on An Post as a network. As a rural Deputy, I know those in An Post have been invaluable in terms of communications and the knowledge they have of our rural and most vulnerable residents.

I have engaged a good deal with An Post, especially in respect of the budgetary requirements. Given where we find ourselves now, post-Brexit, An Post is one of the most effective deliverers of parcels in the whole private commercial network. This is simply because An Post is aligned with Revenue. It is well worth investing in it. An Post seems to be more up to date with things than many of our other services. I know Mr. Griffin cannot outline that but I thank him for that and I look forward to seeing what it is.

I wish to discuss the last EPA report issued. I am concerned about our failure to meet carbon emission targets. I know that previously Department officials have said what the cost was from 2013 to 2020.

At the moment the Department has estimated, from the report, that it would be €6 million to €13 million. Could the officials give a little update on that? Is that the final figure and is there a further cost for this year?