The Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources, Mr Dermot Ahern has said he is "determined" to introduce high speed Internet access to all schools in the State by the end of next year.
Speaking following the publication of a report on the introduction and promotion of broadband access from the Telecom Strategy Group (TSG), the minister said he was considering imposing a levy on telecoms services to fund the introduction of the service.
"This report is clear on the need to deliver broadband to every school. I am determined this will happen next year," Mr Ahern said. "I am considering financing this by means of a levy on telecoms services or through a joint Government/industry initiative involving telecom operators and the wider ICT sector."
The TSG was established to develop a strategy for the development of the market for broadband in the Republic and identify any potential obstacles.
Its report concludes that competition will be main driver of the development of the Irish market.
Other key recommendations in Getting Ireland Onlineare the provision of broadband service in a locality with a limited number of customers and the implementation of Government online services.
The report also calls for the establishment of a new public information website to provide independent advice to the public, as well as easier high speed internet access in all new housing estates via dedicated cabling.
"There are considerable social and economic reasons why broadband has a critical role to play in meeting Ireland's objective of creating a high value knowledge-based economy. It's not just for big business," said Dr George Young, Co-Chair of the group.
The TSG will submit its final report to the Minister before the end of the year.