The Department of Public Expenditure and Reform has announced plans to consolidate hundreds of public service computer and data centres into just ten primary centres by using so-called cloud computing technology.
However, it has not indicated any figures for projected cash savings or job losses from the consolidation.
Cloud technology allows users to access computer resources anywhere without being dependent on traditional computing equipment and software.
It means computer services can be produced cheaper and quicker - with payment on a metered or "per-use" basis.
Effectively, the state would move from owning much of its computer techology to renting it.
According to the "Cloud Computing Strategy for the Public Service" document published this afternoon, the Government will cut the number of public service computer and data centres from potentially hundreds around the country to just ten primary facilities over the next five years - and will use private sector suppliers as much as possible to do so.
It believes by centralising government IT services, it would remove costs in servicing multiple sites including staff supports, power, cooling, light, networking, and maintenance services.
The report acknowledges that cloud computing has not yet evolved to the level required by the public service - citing problems including security, legal issues, jurisdiction, availability and pricing.
However, it says it will implement recommendations in the Cloud Computing Strategy over a number of years as these matters are resolved - and provided they produce tangible cost savings.
The Minster for Public Expenditure and Reform Brendan Howlin described the latest document as a key element at the heart of the strategic future of ICT in the public service.
The government has set up an internet address - cloudstrategy@per.gov.ie - to allow interested parties to suggest how cloud technology services can be improved.
