James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
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Question 206: To ask the Minister for Health and Children if she will provide details on the new computer system planned to replace PPARS; the cost to implement this system; the annual running cost of the new system; the way this system will be funded; when it will become operational; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [44743/08]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
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The Exchequer provides almost €8 billion in funding through the HSE Vote in respect of pay and pensions. The HSE employs some 72,800 staff and funds agencies employing a further 38,000 staff. In line with best practice in the commercial world and other sectors, the effective management of this resource would be greatly facilitated by comprehensive HR systems. Currently the HSE has a number of systems, including PPARS, which it uses to administer HR information and payroll in respect of employees.

The best use of scarce taxpayers' resources for clinical care will only be achieved if payroll and administration costs are managed tightly — and in the modern age, this requires high quality IT systems and, therefore, necessary investment in those systems. The Department is aware that the HSE is considering how best to enhance its HR systems solutions in order to meet its future requirements and expects in due course to receive the HSE's proposals. However, currently no such proposal has been developed by the HSE.

Any proposal which may be submitted by the HSE with regard to its HR systems requirements will, prior to any approval, be given very careful consideration by the Departments of Health and Children and Finance (CMOD) having regard to the need to ensure value for money and other demands on limited ICT capital funds. The consideration will be informed by the experience of delivering large ICT projects.