Inland Revenue has announced that it has signed a contract with Unisys New Zealand for the provision of mainframe services

Chief Technology Officer Myles Ward said that the new six-year contract ensures that mainframe support services will continue in support of the department delivering its tax and social policy obligations.

“A well-functioning mainframe is essential to support the ongoing the collection of revenue and disbursement of social policy payments.

“Therefore we are delighted to have one of our trusted suppliers working with us to deliver these services.”

Mr Ward said that although the cost of the contract cannot be disclosed due to commercial confidentiality, Inland Revenue is funding the project, and no new additional money from Government has been sought.

“The re-tendering for mainframe services was a sensible option and any decisions regarding long-term mainframe replacement options will be undertaken as part of our transformation programme,” Mr Ward said.

The new contract is scheduled to commence in 2014.