Schools IT 20/6/08

INTO Press Release: Statement by John Carr, INTO General Secretary, on Schools IT

20th June 2008
 
The Irish National Teachers’ Organisation has strongly condemned the decision of the Department of Education and Science to axe more than twenty IT advisors to schools. The Department announced at five o clock this evening (Friday) that the positions will not be filled next year.
 
The INTO reacted with fury to the announcement saying it showed the total lack of government commitment to technology in schools.
 
“This decision makes a mockery of government claims to support the development of school computing,” said John Carr. “Ireland is already lagging behind other EU countries when it comes to investment in school computing. This decision pushes the country further down the league table.”
 
He said already government is prepared to let parents and teachers fundraise to buy and maintain school computers. “Now it has pulled the plug on the minimal support it was prepared to provide.”
 
John Carr said the department's move represents a devastating blow to schools and teachers, and undermines the Government's entire strategy for computer education in schools.

ENDS.