Paudie Coffey (Waterford, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I understand what Deputy Colreavy is trying to achieve. In fairness, that should be at the forefront of all of our minds, in particular in the current climate in the context of job creation. Like the Minister, however, I cannot see how it would work in practical terms. This legislation relates to specialised work involving highly qualified technicians. I suspect existing ESB technicians will be utilising their skill sets and those of subcontractors to install this telecommunications fibre around ESB networks. I, too, would be concerned about prescribing in primary legislation that which is proposed in this amendment. The real focus should be that the delivery of this infrastructure has real potential to deliver thousands of jobs in terms of the provision of quality broadband for the regions, in which I believe this legislation will assist.

The ESB already has many jobs initiatives and pilot programmes in place in various communities. It is very supportive nationally. Its apprenticeship schemes have always been excellent. While I understand the thrust of the amendment, I do not support it because I believe practically it would not work.