Report on Information and Communication Support for Members, September 2006
From Nigov
Policy and Resources (Members) Sub-Committee 18 September 2006
Contents |
Background Information
The Policy and Resources Committee, at its meeting on 24th March, agreed a number of information and communication technology improvements to assist Members in working more effectively. One of the agreed actions was to fast-track the implementation and use of wireless technology within the City Hall Committee Rooms.
Key Issues
Update on Progress
Work has proceeded over the summer on this task and the installation of cabling should be complete by the middle of September. I am informed that wireless connectivity should be available in the Committee Rooms during October.
This will allow suitably equipped laptops to connect seamlessly to the Council’s network and provide easy access to Members Portal.
Proposals
Those Members, who as part of their IT provision opted for laptops, will be able to take advantage of this facility. However, it is recognised that certain Members who opted for a desktop PC may wish to access the Council’s systems whist attending Committee meetings. Accordingly, in order to ensure that all Members are equipped to take advantage of advances in technology, it is proposed to provide a laptop PC in addition to the current allocation of equipment so that all Members can access the new technology during Committee meetings if they so desire. As only twelve Members fall into this category, the additional equipment and maintenance costs would not be excessive.
Equipment provided will be consistent with that which has already been provided to Members.
Resource Implications
The maximum cost of providing additional laptops would be approximately £15,000 (i.e. if laptops are requested by all twelve Members who do not currently have equipment which would be compatible with the new systems).
It is not anticipated that there will be any additional ICT training requirements for Members. However, should additional training be required it will be undertaken by Information Services Belfast on a one to one basis in accordance with already established practice. Provision has been made in the Revenue Estimates for such training.
Recommendations
It is recommended that the Sub-Committee agrees to approve the provision of additional laptop PCs to those Members who have not received laptops as part of the Council’s IT equipment provision and who indicate that they wish to make use of the wireless connectivity to be made available in Committee Rooms.
