Charlie McConalogue (Donegal North East, Fianna Fail)
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41. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills to outline her plans to improve broadband connectivity in primary schools; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [45285/14]

Jan O'Sullivan (Limerick City, Labour)
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I appreciate that quality internet connectivity is essential for good teaching and learning using ICT. While great progress has been made at post primary where every school will shortly have a high speed connection, I am aware that improvement at primary is slower and is dependent upon market and technological developments.

Under the Schools Broadband Access Programme, my Department provides for the supply of internet connectivity for all recognised primary schools. A new framework involving more providers was put in place in 2012 which will ensure improved solutions are available to schools.

In the context of the forthcoming Digital Strategy for Schools, improved connectivity for primary schools will be a priority. In this regard, my Department will collaborate with the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources to provide enhanced broadband services.