Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 26 July 2017
359. Deputy Fiona O'Loughlin asked the Minister for Education and Skills the number of primary schools that have upgraded to high-speed broadband connections over the past two years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36475/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraUnder the Schools Broadband Access Programme my Department provides for the supply of internet connectivity for recognised primary and post-primary schools.
A Framework involving 14 providers was put in place in 2012 which has ensured improved solutions are available to schools. A drawdown off the Framework in September 2015 had approximately 90% of school connections retendered, these awards have seen over 1,100 primary schools awarded connections of 30Mbit/s or greater (the target speed set out in the National Broadband Plan). Approximately 800 of these connections have been installed to date and the remainder will be installed in the coming months. Under the current programme my Department continually reviews the availability of services and upgrades schools where the opportunity arises.
The Digital Strategy for Schools 2015-2020 Enhancing Teaching Learning and Assessment, sets out my Department's vision for embedding ICT in teaching learning and assessment in primary and post-primary schools. Implementation of the Strategy is currently under way. A key priority of the Strategy will be to address any broadband connectivity issues experienced by primary schools. An interdepartmental working group is considering this matter at present. My Department is also collaborating with the Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environment on this issue, having regard to the National Broadband Plan.
