Joe Carey
Question:1600 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his plans to extend e-Inclusion funding (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33341/10]
View answerWednesday, 29 September 2010
Questions (1508)
Written answers
I am aware of the important work Age Action and others have been doing in the area of digital inclusion with funding support from my Department. These projects make a positive contribution in many ways as has been borne out in reports on the outcomes of the schemes.
I am aware too that other initiatives such as "Log-on Learn" — involving transition year students, An Post and the corporate sector — are also making a positive contribution in helping older people to acquire digital skills.
Digital engagement is, I believe, an area which merits continued support subject to availability of resources. Since resources are scarce we need to find ways to be even more effective with fewer resources.
I also wish to explore ways we could involve more of the stakeholders (including the corporate sector who are also significant beneficiaries of increased digital engagement) and others working in relevant areas to see how we might best work together in a more coordinated way to achieve more digital engagement from which all will benefit. Future investment in this area will be considered in the above context.