Telecommunications Services

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 16 February 2012

Thursday, 16 February 2012

Questions (89)

Ray Butler

Question:

85 Deputy Ray Butler asked the Minister for Education and Skills regarding the possibility of any of the schools among the 200 schools being allocated broadband upgrades which may be unable to take up the offer, if he will consider re-allocating this high-speed broadband to one or both secondary schools in Trim, County Meath, that are already in a position to take up the proposal for high-speed dedicated point-to-point broadband for schools; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8989/12]

Written answers

Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Ruairí Quinn)

A working group comprising representatives from my Department, HEAnet and the Department of Communications and Natural Resources have recommended a strategy for the roll out of 100mbps to post primary schools. All schools will be connected by the end of 2014. The strategy which has been accepted by Government is based upon the best technical advice available and was designed to achieve best value for money. Any issues arising in the course of the roll out will be referred to the Steering Group in the first instance for guidance.