Jim Daly (Cork South West, Fine Gael)
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To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if he is in a position to offer support and assistance to the Coder Dojo movement; if he is will encourage the schools under its remit to be more proactive in promoting the coding classes being run throughout the country on a voluntary basis; if he recognises the value of such a movement to the future educational needs of this country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8868/13]

Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)
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I am aware of the excellent work of the Coder Dojo movement. Through this initiative young people learn how to code, develop websites, applications, programs and games. One of my Minister's of State has established a Coder Dojo in his constituency. I have no plans to introduce Coder Dojo into the curriculum at present. The overall approach to ICT, based on the advice of the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment is that ICT is not a subject, but rather a tool to be integrated into all aspects of teaching and learning. The Council has published a curriculum framework for ICT setting out the range of skills and learning outcomes which students should achieve. This work is supported by professional development for teachers, by digital content on the Scoilnet website, and by investment in ICT infrastructure in schools.