Regina Doherty (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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427. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills further to Parliamentary Question No. 487 of 6 May 2015 the cost of implementing a digital strategy; if this will include broadband in all primary schools; the cost of this alone; the number of primary schools that already have broadband; if capital funding has been allocated for the implementation of the digital strategy; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [19459/15]

Jan O'Sullivan (Limerick City, Labour)
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The Digital Strategy for Schools which will be finalised shortly will set out an ambitious plan for the further integration of technology in the classroom over the next 5 years. The enhancement of the current broadband provision to primary schools will be a priority under the strategy. In this regard my Department will collaborate with the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources.

My Department currently offers broadband connectivity to all primary schools through the Schools Broadband Access Programme. This programme comprises three elements - local connectivity to schools, a national broadband network and a national service desk. Security and filtering of content/websites, in addition to email and web hosting and blog services are also provided.

Costings relating to implementation of the strategy are currently being prepared. It is intended that a set of funding priorities will be developed annually over the lifetime of the Digital Strategy. These plans will take cognisance of the economic climate and the availability of public funds.