Written answers

Thursday, 19 October 2006

Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources

Information and Communications Technology

5:00 pm

Photo of Pat RabbittePat Rabbitte (Dublin South West, Labour)
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Question 46: To ask the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he has reviewed the recent European Commission report on the use of computers and the Internet in schools; his views on the report's conclusions on information and communications technology in schools here; if he is currently working with the Department of Education and Science to develop ICT provision for primary and post-primary schools across the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33410/06]

Photo of Noel DempseyNoel Dempsey (Meath, Fianna Fail)
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My Department, in consultation with the Department of Education and Science is currently considering the European Commission Report on the Use of Computers and the Internet in Schools. The development of ICT provision for primary and post-primary schools is, in the first instance a matter for the Department of Education and Science.

My Department works closely with the Department of Education and Science on broadband connectivity for schools. In June 2004 a joint industry/Government fund of €18 million was established for the Broadband for Schools Programme to resource the provision of high speed broadband connectivity to all primary and post primary schools in the country by end Autumn 2006, at no cost to the schools themselves. The initiative was established to address the resourcing of broadband access to schools in the shared belief that accelerated provision of broadband access to schools is a prerequisite to the establishment of a knowledge based economy and that such a development is socially, economically and commercially desirable. To date 95% of all primary and secondary schools have broadband installed; the aim is to complete the outstanding schools as soon as possible.

The Broadband for Schools Programme will improve and ensure the quality of the education experience, giving students and teachers access to global information sources. In addition, the Programme will enhance communication and collaboration between school communities, at home and abroad.

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