Paudge Connolly (Cavan-Monaghan, Independent)
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Question 557: To ask the Minister for Education and Science if it is proposed to increase the €2.3 million spent in 2005 to support primary schools for the purchase of information technology equipment; if her attention has been drawn to the €100 million plan for schools' IT in Northern Ireland; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [39099/06]

Mary Hanafin (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)
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The major focus for my Department under the ICT in Schools programme has been the roll-out of broadband connectivity to all recognised schools. This project is being undertaken in partnership with industry, in the context of the joint Government/IBEC — TIF (Telecommunications and Internet Federation) Agreement, to provide local connectivity to schools.

The broadband connectivity is being provided via a Schools National Broadband Network supported by HEAnet, in order to provide managed Internet access, email, security controls and content filtering. A broadband support service is being managed by the National Centre for Technology in Education to assist schools with advice and information relating to the roll-out and ongoing use of their broadband connectivity within the schools network. This programme builds on the investment made in grant aiding schools to develop their internal networks.

I am aware of the approach being taken in Northern Ireland. I can assure the Deputy that I am aware of the benefits that good use of ICT can bring to our children's education and will bear this in mind in considering what areas should be the future priorities for the ICT in Schools Programme.