Damien English (Meath West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 243: To ask the Minister for Defence if he uses video conferencing technology in order to reduce the amount of travel taken to attend meetings; if his Department has video conferencing facilities available to staff in each Departmental building; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32660/07]

Willie O'Dea (Limerick East, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

My Department and the Defence Forces have been using video conferencing facilities for a number of years to improve communications and efficiency. Facilities are installed and available to staff in all Departmental buildings, in Defence Forces Headquarters and at each Brigade Headquarters. They are used, on a regular basis, to link personnel in Ireland and abroad. Videoconference facilities are also used in national and international training exercises.

The facilities are upgraded and redeveloped as new technology becomes available and I am satisfied that they have proven, and will continue to prove, productive and cost effective.