Broadband in schools ‘pointless’ without PCs

AN €18 million programme giving free internet access to the country’s 4,000 schools is pointless without more classroom computers, teachers have warned.

The Government announced yesterday it is to contribute €3m and the remainder will be invested by telecoms firms. The aim is to have a broadband connection in every school by the end of 2005, providing faster download speeds and developing a central schools internet network.

But the Teachers Union of Ireland (TUI) said the number of computers in schools must be greatly increased if the programme is to be of any benefit.

A recent Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) report found Ireland has fewer computers for second-level students than most developed countries.

“Providing free broadband internet access is a pointless exercise unless the ... issue of providing enough computers to allow all pupils reasonable access is first addressed,” said TUI president Derek Dunne.

A spokesman for Communications Minister Dermot Ahern said the Government will ensure there is a major upgrade in computer facilities.

“We are going to be in discussion with suppliers for special deals to provide personal computers in schools,” he said.