[vicsireland] ATAG press release
- From: "Derbhile Dromey" <derbhile.dromey@xxxxxxxxx>
- To: vicsireland@xxxxxxxxxxxxx
- Date: Thu, 19 Jun 2008 14:47:03 +0100
Hi
This is the press release I have drawn up in my role as PRO of VICS about
the next phase of the ATAG scheme
Derbhile
New Grants for Visually Impaired Computer Users
The Visually Impaired Computer Society (VICS) has launched the second phase
of its Assistive Technology Acquisition Grant. The grant, delivered in
association with the National Council for the Blind of Ireland, covers 25%
of the cost of any new technology a visually impaired person needs to access
computers. VICS decided to launch the scheme for a second year on foot of
the success of the pilot scheme.
Known as the ATAG, the grant can be used to offset the cost of purchasing
any piece of software, such as a screenreader, CCTV reader or Braille
printer. The applicant submits a purchase receipt and receives 25% of the
pre-VAT cost of the product. Potentially, this means people can earn back up
to €750 on a product worth more than €3,000. If people purchase through the
NCBI, they can also claim back VAT.
This installment of the ATAG grant covers items purchased after June 1st,
2008. Only one item can be purchased throughout the period of the grant.
Applicants can apply for a second product, but only when more than 12 months
have passed since the first successful application. The applicant is
responsible for any maintenance or upgrades that are required.
To apply, complete an application form, available from the NCBI in print,
large print, Braille and on the NCBI Website, www.ncbi.ie. Applications will
be considered on a case-by-case basis. You do not need to be a member of
VICS to apply.
Contact Stuart Lawler on 01 8821901 or stuart.lawler@xxxxxxx
Membership of VICS costs €10 a year. Members can communicate with each
other via a special list, to discuss issues they are dealing with in the
area of assistive technology. VICS also hosts open days and training days
throughout the year.
For more information about VICS itself, visit www.vicsireland.org.
Other related posts:
- » [vicsireland] ATAG press release
