Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 8 September 2022
44. Deputy James Browne asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the position regarding funding for an organisation (details supplied) for the provision of online training for persons; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42404/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs an initiative under Strand 2 of the previous National Digital Strategy for Ireland, my Department provided the “Digital Skills for Citizens” training scheme. In total 15 community, voluntary and not-for-profit organisations were funded to deliver 10 hours of free informal basic digital skills classes to people who did not have the confidence or skills to use the internet and access online services. Since the training scheme commenced in 2017, €5.5 million has been invested in providing training to over 60,000 participants. Training modules included internet safety, how to send and receive emails, how to tax your car online and how to use social media. This training scheme was targeted at people over 45 years of age, farming communities, small business owners, the unemployed, persons with disabilities and disadvantaged groups.
As per the terms of their Grant Agreement the organisation in question received €398,027 in grant funding and have recently completed their training obligations under the Scheme.
