380. Deputy Shay Brennan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation the way in which the commitments in the Digital Inclusion Roadmap are being measured, reported, and enforced; and whether any measurable outcomes or accountability structures exist. [45849/26]

As the Deputy may be aware Digital Ireland, the new National Digital and Artificial Intelligence Strategy, was published earlier this year.  Digital for Good: Ireland’s Digital Inclusion Roadmap was a key input to that strategy in which Government renewed its commitment to inclusion and accessibility so that no one is left behind.  As with the Roadmap, progress reporting on digital inclusion will be included with updates on the Digital Ireland strategy.

The Government’s aim continues to be to make the digital transition a positive one for those who can engage digitally and to provide support or an alternative for those who cannot.  By enabling and encouraging those who can use digital services to do so, Government will redirect resources in a range of ways to provide a much better service to those who may need assistance.  We will use digital to improve the off-line experience for those who are unable or do not wish to consume services digitally. The Government also recognises that digital public services must be accessible, literacy-friendly, equitable, and inclusive, designed to reach all groups in society, including those who are digitally disadvantaged and lack digital skills.

The continued progress with and success of initiatives such as the Adult Literacy for Life strategy, the National Broadband Plan and Broadband for Schools programmes, as well as the extensive mobile coverage from commercial operators, are ensuring members of the public have access to the connectivity and skills needed to access digital services.

Finally, I would like to draw the Deputy’s attention to the Charter for Digital Inclusion announced previously by my colleague the Minister of State for Trade Promotion, Artificial Intelligence and Digital Transformation. The Charter outlines a set of core commitments focused on accessibility, equity, affordability, and the development of digital skills and is, as a framework for collaboration between the public sector, large enterprises, SMEs, community organisations and citizens.  The Charter will continue to form part of Government’s efforts to ensure no one is left behind.