The millennium bug is a well-publicised phenomenon arising from the inability of non-compliant computers and embedded electronic chips to process date information as we pass from 1999 to the year 2000 (Y2K). Many Irish Lights systems use computer and electronic processors.

Planning for Y2K began in 1997 with the replacement of the central monitoring and control system computers for all automated lighthouses. This was augmented by a comprehensive plan to ensure that all station, office, and plant equipment, together with the infrastructural support systems, would have full Y2K compliance. Over 100 items have been analysed, replaced where necessary, and are now considered to be fully compliant.

Our plans have been subjected to independent audit by specialist Y2K auditors. The operational philosophy in Irish Lights is self-sufficiency in as many areas of operations as are appropriate to our function. Systems are designed with multiple redundancy. In almost all locations we have independent emergency power and back-up systems to ensure 365 days a year continuous operation.

Along with all other safety orientated services, Irish Lights has put in place contingency plans to ensure continued operation of services to the mariner over the millennium transition period in the unlikely event that one of our service providers lets us down. For example, in November and December Lighthouse Attendants were asked to pay special attention to checking all lighthouse systems, to ensure that mains failure generating sets and battery systems were in good working order, and to ensure that fuel supplies were fully topped up.

IN ADDITION, the normal Irish Lights support structures will continue to operate-

Central Monitoring & Reporting
The remote control and monitoring centre at the Lighthouse Depot, Dun Laoghaire, is a continuously manned monitoring and reporting centre with duplicated computer systems, communications, and power supplies.

Senior Management Duty System
The Inspector of Lights and Marine Superintendent's Department provides a continuously available Inspector with authority to issue Radio Navigational Warnings and allocate emergency resources. The Engineering Department provides continuous availability of Senior Engineering Management to provide technical assistance and resource allocation.

Technical Support
Specialised multi-disciplinary engineering maintenance and telemetry staff are continuously available.

Service Emergency Plan
Plans and procedures for handling service emergencies are a constituent part of the Marine Department's International Safety Management Code certification.

Aids to Navigation Support Vessel
Our support vessel Granuaile II is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, with support and emergency cover from other vessels of the five vessel General Lighthouse Authority fleet.

Helicopter
The services of a helicopter, including a standby aircraft, are continuously available through our contract service provider, Irish Helicopters Ltd.

Local Boats
There is a strategic configuration of local boats around the coast for access to offshore lighthouses in sheltered waters and to assist in buoy maintenance.

Lighthouse, Lightfloat, and Helipad Attendants
Lighthouse and Helipad Attendants, Lightfloat Attendant Masters, Assistant Attendants, and Buoy Observers are on call on a continuous availability basis.

These support structures, the attention to detail in analysing the Y2K problem, and our contingency plans should ensure a smooth transition to the year 2000.

We are proud of our service to the mariner and are confident that we will uphold this service over the millennium transition period.