Bernard Allen (Cork North Central, Fine Gael)
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Question 86: To ask the Minister for Education and Science if a new strategy for introducing information technology into schools will be announced; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12941/05]

Mary Hanafin (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)
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The major focus for my Department at present is the roll out of broadband connectivity to all recognised schools. This project is being undertaken in partnership with industry, following the establishment of a three year €18 million joint Government/IBEC-TIF fund. The broadband connectivity will be provided via a backbone schools network supported by HEAnet, which will provide managed Internet access, e-mail, security controls and other services designed to enhance the educational process. A broadband support service will be provided by the NCTE to assist schools with advice and information relating to the roll out and ongoing use of their broadband connectivity within the schools network.

The provision of always-on high speed Internet access for recognised schools represents a major development in the schools ICT initative to integrate technology into teaching and learning in our schools and equip our young people for full participation in the information society.