This is the first report of the Inter-Departmental Implementation Group on the Information Society. It contains two parts: a proposed Action Plan, and a Commentary on that plan.
The Information Society represents a phenomenal challenge and opportunity for Ireland. We are at the early stages of a new industrial revolution - one which will have more dramatic implications than any other single industrial development in the history of the State. New structures and business models are evolving but, unlike in previous times, these developments are taking place at breakneck speed.
The First Report of the Inter-Departmental Implementation Group on the Information Society was considered by Government on 21 December, 1998. Following this, "Implementing the Information Society in Ireland: an Action Plan" was launched by the Taoiseach in January 1999, in booklet format and on the world wide web. Since then almost 2,000 copies of the booklet have been distributed, within and beyond the public sector.
A supportive public policy environment is clearly critical to shaping our development as an Information Society. This Action Plan provides a strategic framework for renewed commitment to this agenda across all areas of Government. I am confident that it gives a solid basis to underpin future economic and social prosperity
Recommendations on eCabinet: The Government are keen to ensure Irelands continued development as a progressive Information Society and take the view that in this regard the Government should lead by example. Accordingly, consultants PWC were retained to research technology possibilities and best practices and to make recommendations on an eCabinet model.
A briefing was held in Dublin Castle on Thursday 27th June for top management and leaders from the public service to put e-Government in context as a business modernisation process.
Much progress has been achieved since the launch of New Connections, and I am confident that in the coming months and beyond, further enhancement in the delivery of services for the Irish citizen will be implemented, particularly in the areas of eInclusion and telecommunications infrastructure.
This second report on the implementation of New Connections the Governments Action Plan for the Information Society in Ireland points to much progress in a number of crucial areas such as Telecommunications Infrastructure, Legal and Regulatory, Environment, ICTs in Government and eInclusion.
more inclusive information society in Europe.
In the global knowledge-based economy, our future competitiveness and cohesion is critically dependent on all sections of society becoming more innovative. We cannot face tomorrow’s challenges equipped only with yesterday’s solutions.