Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources Pat Rabbitte (pictured) has confirmed that digital literacy project
is to be continued into the latter half of this year.
The training scheme focuses on the use of basic applications like e-mail, Internet browsing, online banking, VoIP services (Skype) and how to reserve a seat using an online airline booking system.
The six-hour course - provided through local groups in community facilities - costs a nominal fee of €20 and in some cases is free. To date Government has invested €1.88 million in the scheme.
Of those who have availed of training under the scheme 36% are aged 65 or older, 24% were unemployed, over 7% were people with a disability. About three people in 10 said they felt they would be able to teach the skills they had learned to someone else and almost one person in three said that as a result of doing the course they intended to buy a computer, laptop or similar access device soon.
"This training is proving very popular. This is clear from the very positive feedback we are getting from the people who have availed of the training all over the country. I am very heartened to see the beneficial impact it is having on so many people. This is clear from the feedback we are getting," said Minister Rabbitte. "In response to requests from several of our training partners I am arranging to extend the scheme so that training can continue to be provided through the autumn and into the latter part of the year."
Techcentral Reporters