James Lawless (Kildare North, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister. His response was very interesting. I am delighted to hear the centre is to be located in Backweston in my constituency of Kildare North. I am aware of the forensic science laboratory and other State facilities already located there. This will complement the facilities at that location. I know that centre is operating well and it is good to see it growing with this new establishment.

I have a couple of questions on the centre itself. Data centres can be very useful and I welcome the fact that the State is progressing this project and centralising its view of citizens' data. That will present synergies and benefits for all public services. They can be very energy hungry. Is there a renewable energy plan to accompany this particular centre? With regard to the skills and talent required, we can be thankful that there is no shortage in north Kildare. In the context of employment opportunities, however, particular skill sets are required for any technology project. Such skill sets will be required for any data mining that might follow on from this project and to operate this single view of the citizen. There are also synergies with our Defence Forces, some of whose members may have been trained in those areas. Perhaps we could begin to build a centre of excellence for these skills in Ireland. In light of the recent cyberattack on the HSE, we must also be alert to cybersecurity concerns. Will building talent and bringing talent in from the private sector or the Defence Forces be an aspect of this project? Will there be a renewable energy component to driving the centre on?

See this speech in context