Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)

As I stated, PPARs was initiated by a number of health boards in 1995 following the publication of the health strategy in 1994. It was felt by a number of health boards, including some hospitals, that we needed to invest in a payroll system. That payroll system, which later became known as PPARs, and which is currently operating in a large number of places, has brought to light many deficiencies, inadequacies and variations in work practices. Technology is important if we are to drive greater efficiency in the interest of patient care. I do not want the Deputy or anybody else to think we can operate a modern health service without investing considerably in technology.

The HSE is currently recruiting a director of ICT. Interviews in this regard are currently under way. This is important. There are new systems in place, involving the Departments of Health and Children and Finance, in respect of projects of this kind which require central approval.

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