Jack Wall (Kildare South, Labour)
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Question 212: To ask the Minister for Education and Science the factors schools in County Kildare will have to use to ensure proper computer services for each school to overcome recent changes due to the fact that the information technology adviser for primary and secondary schools in the county has not been reappointed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26115/08]

Batt O'Keeffe (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
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A Value for Money Review of the ICT Support Service, which addressed the work of the NCTE, the ICT Advisory Service and specific posts assigned to the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment, was undertaken by my Department. While concluding that the Service is generally effective and efficient, the Report recognises that each school must plan and execute its own policy for ICT integration across the curriculum. It concludes that now, ten years on, the resources currently utilised by the ICT Advisory Service operating from the regional Education Centres would be better employed focussing supports for ICT leadership and change within each school.

The Education Centres have been advised that my Department is not prepared to renew secondment arrangements for the 14 teachers seconded as ICT Advisors. The implementation of these arrangements has been discussed with the Education Centres and schools concerned. My Department will ensure that any difficulties arising in specific schools by the return of the teachers concerned will be addressed. The position of the three non-seconded ICT advisors is under consideration.

As the Deputy will be aware, I intend to publish the report of the Strategy Group appointed to advise on priorities for investment in ICT in Schools. The National Centre for Technology in Education will continue to provide advice and support to schools on the integration of ICT into teaching and learning. The role of the school's ICT coordinating teacher will be prioritised as central in the provision of ongoing ICT support and advice to teachers and ICT will be integrated into all the support service activities and ongoing curriculum development.