The Government has failed to publish a new technology policy for schools, despite criticisms from the private sector last year for stalling.

ICT Ireland, a lobby group for the technology industry, reiterated its warning yesterday that the lack of a clear policy could mean that new broadband services may not be used by schools. Mr Brendan Butler, director of ICT Ireland, said there was a glaring gap in policy. Having broadband meant nothing without the computers to use it, he said.

A spokeswoman for the Department of Education said it had made progress on a new ICT strategy for schools but was not yet in a position to publish it. The Government's previous policy on promoting education in schools lapsed in December and a new policy is under review. The cost of upgrading technology and implementing a central procurement policy for all State schools are believed to be delaying the implementation of a new ICT strategy.