Dominic Hannigan (Labour)

The imminent publication of the national broadband strategy is eagerly awaited. We need universal broadband access if we are to shield ourselves from the storm outside. We also need to invest in education. I was disappointed to read this morning that our schools have just one computer for every ten children. It was worse to read about the age of the computers in question. Some 20% of the computers in our schools are over six years of age. We continue to expect our children to use clapped-out equipment even though the Leinster House computer policy document, a copy of which I have in my hand, states that computers are deemed to be worthless after four years. How can we expect our young people to lead the world in the future if they are not being given the learning tools they need? I would like the Minister to come to the House to update Senators on the information technology strategy for schools that is being pursued under the national development plan.