Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 11 February 2010
282 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science the arrangements that have been made to provide technical support to schools in the area of information, communication and technology in relation to the recent investment by his Department in teaching laptops in primary schools; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7486/10]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Deputy will be aware that the recent funding provided to primary schools to purchase teaching computers and digital projectors is a first step in investment in ICT in schools as outlined in the "Smart Schools = Smart Economy" Report published last November. Schools currently procure their own technical support as required, and some form of technical support is generally included in the purchase of PCs. For example, schools are currently required to use the Framework Agreement for the purchase of laptops and the price quoted under the Framework includes a three year onsite warranty which provides next business day ‘onsite' support.
The scoping of a technical support solution for all schools is complex due to the broad variety of ICT infrastructure components and configurations deployed across schools at the moment. The question of putting in place such a solution is part of the recommendations of the "Smart Schools = Smart Economy" Report. A number of areas are currently being explored in my department including reviewing the experience of the VECs in this area. The Smart Schools Report also recommends the setting up of an ICT in Schools Steering Group, which I am in the process of setting up, to advise on the implementation of the recommendations of the Report. The issue of a technical support solution is one of the areas it will advise on including the possibility of trialling a centralised technical support solution within the 78 post-primary schools involved in the 100 Mbts Broadband pilot project.
