Brian Hayes (Dublin South West, Fine Gael)
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Question 719: To ask the Minister for Education and Science when the schools information, communications and technology strategy will be made publicly available; if he has received formal notification from the Department of Finance as to when National Development Plan funding for the ICT strategy will be made available; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28967/08]

Batt O'Keeffe (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
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I am publishing the report 'Investing Effectively in Information and Communications Technology in Schools 2008-2013' prepared by the Strategy Group appointed to advise on priorities for investment in ICT in Schools. This report highlights the need for an integrated approach across a range of areas covering teacher professional development, digital content, broadband, technical support and ICT infrastructure. I am also publishing the evaluation report undertaken by my Department's Inspectorate on the impact of ICT on teaching and learning, 'ICT in Schools'. Together these Reports provide a range of recommendations on how best to further the integration of ICT into teaching and learning in our schools.

The Government's commitment to pursuing the integration of ICT in teaching and learning is set out in the Programme for Government. The National Development Plan envisages investment of some €252m in this area over the period of the Plan. While we face significant challenges in implementing some of the recommendations having regard to the current economic situation, I am committed to investing in this area as resources permit.