Concerns over computer system

According to a 'MAIL' source the new 'ePIC' system has failed in its trial period in Belfast offices.

It's understood the system is due to be introduced at offices, including Marlborough House in Craigavon, in September.

"To announce to us that we face leaving Planning Service whilst they roll out these costly systems is nothing short of ridiculous," said one concerned civil servant in Craigavon.

"At a estimated price of 14million, it is an insult to some of those staff who fear for their jobs in the recently announced 40per cent reduction in staff. To add further insult it seems the new system makes obsolete a system called TRIM introduced three years ago at a cost of 10million, which many never used or felt necessary to use in their everyday work.

"To further insult us, they now roll out this new system which by all accounts does not seem to work.

"Our colleagues in Belfast have spoken of one week of sitting about doing nothing as they were instructed not to add anything new to the old database, only to find themselves unable to even open the new system on Monday of last week. 10 days on and still it doesn't work correctly but the work continues to pile up."

Planning Service confirmed the roll-out of ePIC has begun, but added it was not being used to replace TRIM, the document and records management system for the whole of the Northern Ireland Civil Service. It was confirmed the cost of ePIC is 12.8million.

A spokesperson said: "The existing planning system called Planner 20/20, which has been used in Planning Service since 1997 is being replaced by ePIC. ePIC introduces a range of services, including the facilities to submit a planning application on-line, track individual planning applications and view associated documentation including maps and consultations."

They added: "In addition ePIC provides planning officers with a modern system which supports the total planning application process from initial registration to final decision.

"It also enables Planning officers to contact consultees such as NIW and Roads Service electronically. The roll-out of ePIC has begun and will be fully implemented in all Planning divisions by November 2010."