Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

It can never be totally fit for purpose because very skilled, nefarious elements are looking to break into networks, whether for ransom or other reasons. Munster Technological University was subject to such an attack this weekend. I was briefed by the Minister of State, Deputy Ossian Smyth, about it earlier today. The college itself has been closed, which shows how debilitating it is when people cannot get access to a site. The National Cyber Security Centre showed its mettle during the attack on the health service. It was incredible with its 24-7 work with outside agencies and the health service to restore services. It has since seen a massive expansion, up to 43 positions, with a commitment to have 60 by the end of this year. It is in temporary headquarters at the moment but, along with our Department, will move into a new specially designed and built cybersecurity centre in Beggar's Bush at the end of this year. It is full of some of our best capability. People often come in from the defence sector with good connections with other trusted international intelligence sources. Its primary job is to work with our universities, health system and Government Departments to make sure they have the right protocols in place. I understand that Munster Technological University was well-equipped in that regard but it shows that one can never be complacent. It is a race in technological evolution to see who has the best protection or attack.