Premier Andrew Furey acknowledges the Meditech health care system that was hacked has caused problems in the past.
But he stopped short of saying it contributed to the October 30 cyber attack, noting that will be part of the investigations.
He says the government recognizes the system is problematic, noting the Opposition also considered updating the system in the past. But he said it’s also provides an opportunity to reflect on whether to stick with the system or do a complete overhaul.
Opposition Leader David Brazil first raised the issue in the House of Assembly on Tuesday, the final day of sitting before the winter break.
He questioned Digital Government Minister Sarah Stoodley on the aging system and what it means for current efforts to restore services.
Brazil says it’s the Opposition’s understanding that Meditech warned government about the lack of support for the old software “on many occasions over the last several years.” He asked whether government intends to continue using the old software in future.
Minister Stoodley responded by indicating that they are focused on restoring services following the cyber attack affecting the Newfoundland Centre for Health Information. She says government has engaged federal authorities to bring services back and they’re looking at what systems need to be updated.
“What that tells me is there is a lot of work that needs to be done to ensure that our IT systems are safe, and keeping our information safe from hackers,” Brazil responded.