Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 1 Feb 2001

Vol. 529 No. 3

Written Answers. - Computerisation Programme.

Ivor Callely

Question:

144 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Education and Science the financial assistance that is available to schools in Dublin 3, 5 and 9 to improve and enhance their computer and information technology; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1459/01]

Minister for Education and Science (Dr. Woods)

My Department operates a number of schemes under which financial assistance is available to primary and second level schools generally to improve and enhance their computer and information technology.

Under the Schools IT 2000 project, initiated in November 1997, £40 million has been provided with the objective of ensuring that pupils in every school have the opportunity of achieving computer and internet literacy and of preparing themselves for participation in the information society. Under this initiative all schools within the free education scheme have received, in two phases, block grants for educational equipment and software, and supplementary grants for a range of special provisions. Planning for the next phase of Schools IT 2000 is currently under way in my Department.

My Department also provides £3,000 per annum plus £10 per pupil to all primary schools under the minor works scheme. Schools may use this funding to purchase computers, or other equipment.

Where my Department approves the building of a new second level school, an extension to an existing school or a major refurbishment of an existing school building, funding is available for the provision of computer hardware and software. As part of the mechanical and electrical design of a second level school building project, ducting for IT equipment is also provided. Funding may, in addition, be made available for replacement computer equipment. Schools providing the restructured leaving certificate vocational – LCVP – and-or leaving certificate applied – LCA – programmes receive a once-off grant for equipment, mainly computer equipment.

Finally, under the school administration project, my Department provides funding to assist schools in acquiring ICT equipment and software for administration purposes.