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The Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, Pat Rabbitte, T.D., has reaffirmed his objective to roll out high speed broadband to all second level schools in Ireland on a phased basis, following a successful pilot programme which has delivered 100mgbs broadband to 78 second level schools.

The Minister said that he has been engaged in positive discussions with the Minister for Education and Skills in relation to the full roll-out, including financing the ongoing costs. The Minister expects to be in a position to bring forward specific proposals after the summer. The financing of the initiative will be considered in the context of general budgetary discussions this autumn.

 "The provision of high speed broadband to second level schools will underpin the commitment in the Programme for Government to integrate ICT in teaching and learning across the curriculum" Minister Rabbitte said. "ICT skills are in strong demand in Ireland and internationally and the availability of highly skilled graduates in this area is a priority, so that Ireland can reap the full reward of our digital economy – in terms of jobs and the continued growth of the vibrant ICT sector in Ireland".

Minister Rabbitte continued: "The development of a knowledge society will also deliver wider advantages to Ireland, including social, cultural and educational benefits. Schools with high speed broadband access will be in a position to develop innovative teaching models which can benefit both pupils and teachers. Our aim is to ensure that the current and future generation of second level pupils have the skills and competencies to fully embrace the challenges and opportunities of the digital age".