This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Smart card technology makes life easier
11/04/2005
Smart cards are modern, practical and an excellent way
to make people's lives easier Public Services Reform
Minister Tom McCabe said today.
He was speaking at an award ceremony in Aberdeen as he
presented graduation certificates to 12 successful students
who have completed a diploma in the use of smart card
technology.
The students were staff from councils across Scotland
who will have the responsibility of putting smart card
systems in place for a range of public services.
Mr McCabe said:
"Smart cards are a modern and innovative use of
technology which makes life easier for many people.
"Well trained staff are a vital element in delivering
successful smart card technology and I am delighted that
all of the students here today have passed with flying
colours. They will go on and play a vital role in ensuring
that smart card systems are as effective as possible across
a wide range of public services.
"I have seen for myself today the various benefits of
using smart cards.
"The pioneering system in place in Aberdeen's schools is
a huge success, resulting not only in improved access to
school meals, to the library and to other sport and leisure
facilities, but also by allowing healthy eating promotions
to be monitored. The feedback I have received today from
staff and pupils alike is extremely positive."
Mr McCabe visited Harlaw Academy in Aberdeen where he
met with staff and a number of pupils who regularly use the
Accord card, Aberdeen's smart card, and also took the
opportunity to use his own card to buy lunch.
He added:
"I am impressed that Aberdeen City Council and their
partners are committed to modernising the services they
provide their customers in innovative and creative ways,
whatever age group they fall into. The Council is in an
excellent position to continue to be a major partner in the
development of the National Entitlement Card scheme, which
the Scottish Executive is supporting through funding from
the Modernising Government Fund.
"The Fund has been a catalyst for finding new and
improved ways of working in partnership, and ensuring that
we deliver the most effective services and for the best
value for money."
The 'graduates' were from the following councils: West
Lothian, City of Edinburgh, Aberdeen City, Midlothian,
Dundee City, Dumfries & Galloway, Fife, Angus and East
Lothian.