Did you know that almost one in six adults living in Ireland has never used the internet??
Well, if you are one of these, you can now get support to go “surfing” online as the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment Minister Richard Bruton, has launched the new Digital Skills for Citizens Grant Scheme.
Under the Grant Scheme, citizens who have never used the Internet will be provided with 10 hours of classroom training, free of charge. Lessons are structured to cover the basics skills, and also allow flexibility to address the particular needs and preferences identified by the trainees in attendance.
Figures from the Central Statistics Office show that 17% of Irish people have never used the internet and cite lack of skills as one of the key barriers. This Scheme aims to address this skills deficit and give people the confidence and knowledge to participate in today’s digital world.
Organisations applying for grant assistance are encouraged to target training at specific groups such as people over 45, farming communities, small business owners, the unemployed, persons with disabilities and disadvantaged groups.
The call for proposals is open to all community, voluntary and not-for-profit organisations to apply for grant assistance to provide basic digital skills training courses in cities, towns and villages across all Counties. Organisations have the opportunity to collaborate and work together to submit an application, in which case one organisation will take the lead role.
Between 25,000 and 30,000 people will be supported through the new grant scheme so they can move online.
Local Independent Cllr. John Paul O’ Shea said “The Digital Skills for Citizens Scheme is designed to provide citizens who have never used the internet with the confidence, motivation and skills to reap the benefits of participating in today’s digital world. This is a good grant scheme and I am urging all community groups and not-for-profit organisations to apply. By working in partnership with community, voluntary and not-for-profit organisations, we will equip people with the skills they need to use and enjoy all that the internet offers.”
Full details about the Grant Scheme are available on the Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environment’s website at http://www.dccae.gov.ie/communications/en-ie/Digital-Strategy/Pages/Get-Citizens-Online.aspx
Should you require any further information, please email gettingcitizensonline@dccae.gov.ie or contact Caroline Henry at 01 6782566.
