Michael Colreavy (Sligo-North Leitrim, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

Notwithstanding my continuing concerns with regard to the possible sale of the utility involved, from the outset I have stated my belief that this is very good legislation. I will seek another way to ensure that my concerns in respect of the selling of networks might be addressed.

The legislation has the potential to improve broadband access dramatically throughout the country. However, it also increases the possibility that a two-speed Ireland will be created. If one looks at a map of this country, one will discover that there is very little infrastructure in the west. Broadband is the one area in respect of which the west should be able to keep up to speed with the remainder of the country. I appreciate the Minister's comments to the effect that the mapping exercise is almost complete. I am aware, however, of a number of businesses which cannot continue to operate because they cannot obtain broadband access. I know the owners of two businesses who are obliged to drive around in their cars in order to locate a signal strong enough to allow them to transact business electronically. People should not have to do that in this day and age.

As soon as the information becomes available to him, will the Minister provide an indicative timescale regarding when the public service obligation aspect of this matter will be addressed? There will be no difficulty providing broadband services to centres of population because the number of potential customers will make it commercially viable to do so. Will the Minister, as soon as is possible, outline an indicative timescale as to when broadband services will be made available to people who live in areas to which the provision of such services would not be considered commercially viable? This is an important matter and it is having an impact in the context of existing and potential future employment. Each day or week the people to whom I refer are obliged to wait for broadband services is a day or a week too many.

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