Éamon Ó Cuív (Galway West, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

122. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if fibre broadband is rolled out nationwide, if schools will have access to this technology under the present filtered system; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6190/17]

Richard Bruton (Dublin Bay North, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Through the Schools Broadband Access Programme, the Department provides for the supply of internet connectivity for all recognised primary, post-primary and special schools. The overall policy of my Department is to offer the best quality connectivity to all schools in line with technical solutions available in the market and within required financial parameters.

A framework involving 14 providers was put in place in 2012 which has ensured improved solutions are available to primary schools. The most recent draw down off that framework saw approximately 90% of school connections retendered, with over 1,100 schools awarded connections of 30Mbit/s or greater.  

The Department has upgraded more than 1,000 school connections to fibre broadband in fibre broadband enabled areas. Under the current programme, the Department continually reviews the availability of services and upgrades schools where the opportunity arises, within the parameters of the programme and in compliance with procurement and contractual obligations. Connecting schools to fibre broadband where and when available will be considered in that context.

The recently announced ICT Infrastructure Grant represents the first tranche of funding committed to under the Digital Strategy for Schools 2015-2020 Enhancing Teaching, Learning and Assessment, launched in October 2015. This outlines the Department’s vision to further embed technology and digital learning in primary and post-primary schools, through detailed actions in areas including curriculum, digital content, teacher education and CPD, and advice and support.  The circular announcing details of the scheme can be referenced at ().