Internet made accessible for NI homes

A new CD Rom, aimed at making the Internet easy and accessible for everyone is to be sent to every household throughout Northern Ireland.

The CD has been launched today as part of the upcoming Adult Learners Week beginning on May 22 and ending on May 26.

Speaking at the launch of the Internet Made Easy CD, Bill McCluggage, head of the Delivery & Innovation Division said: “The Internet is for everyone, but we need to help people understand the World Wide Web and show them not only how but where they can get access to it.”

The Internet Made Easy CD explains in simple, easy to understand steps, how to use a computer, how to connect to the Internet and how to search and browse the World Wide Web.

The CD also highlights the benefits of using the Internet by explaining how to use email services and instant messaging, and also how to save time and money by shopping, banking and booking cheap flights on-line.

There are also easy to follow steps on how to find a job on-line, learn about consumer rights, Internet security and alot more.

While not everyone has a computer in their own home, the public can use over 400 Internet access points in libraries, community centres and Internet cafés throughout Northern Ireland.

By texting the word INTERNET and their full postcode to 60900 members of the public will instantly get a text message back to tell them where there nearest public Internet access point is.

Those without a mobile phone can contact the Educational Guidance Service for Adults (EGSA) on 0845 602 6632 and speak to an adviser who will help them find their nearest Internet access point and training centre.

Mr McCluggage concluded: “Northern Ireland is one of the leading broadband regions in Europe with 100% access to broadband. By addressing the reasons why people don’t use the Internet and providing them with the skills to get started, I am confident that this CD is a great way to build on our world class broadband infrastructure and promote digital literacy throughout Northern Ireland.”

(EF/SP)