Conference Seeks To End Digital Divide

E-Inclusion is the use of technology to ensure that no one in society, whether through demographics, age or skills set is disadvantaged by being excluded from the benefits information and communication technology has to offer.

To this end, a number of issues were examined at the conference including accessibility, information society and older people, digital literacy for life, investment in e-inclusion and next generation broadband.

Minister Power informed his European Ministerial colleagues of Ireland's recent Next Generation Network consultation process and of our commitment under the National Broadband Scheme to provide broadband to all areas currently unserved nationwide. Minister Power also outlined detail of the BenefIT Scheme which provides financial assistance to community groups.

Speaking from Vienna, Minister Power said, "In common with other European countries we recognise the vital importance of Next Generation Broadband and the central part it will play in developing Ireland as an information society and an information economy.

"With regard to broadband projects, I was highly impressed with local co operative based initiatives from rural areas around Europe which show that involvement at a local level is integral to developing awareness of the benefits of an e-inclusive society.

"I am very impressed by Irish projects both from business and community sectors that were showcased here in Vienna. I am particularly pleased that there were two Irish medal winners from a total of over 460 e-accessible competition entries from all around Europe.

"The digital divide remains an important issue - one that, as Minister with responsibility for the Knowledge Society, I am determined to keep at the centre of my agenda."