Vol. 524 No. 2
175 Dr. O'Hanlon asked the Minister for Public Enterprise the schemes and supports available from her Department or agencies under the aegis of her Department to schools, businesses, community groups and individuals, to promote information technology, including greater awareness of relevance, the development of skills and access to computers; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22096/00]
My Department is currently undertaking a number of initiatives to enhance connectivity throughout the country. These include co-investment of over 80 million ecu under the economic infrastructure programme in rolling out broadband infrastructure around the country. In addition, I have secured up to 150 million ecu under the National Development Plan 2000-2006 to further that regional broadband investment programme. The first call for proposals under the NDP closed late last month and proposals are currently being assessed.
In recent weeks a call for pilot satellite based information technology projects in a number of diverse user communities also closed. My Department is currently assessing the proposals received and I hope to make an announcement shortly. These projects will directly promote the use of information and communications technologies among businesses, community groups, schools and individuals.
