Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

We recognise the importance of high-speed broadband connectivity. I appreciate the frustration experienced by businesses and communities that have no access to such a service. The improved connectivity is delivered through the national broadband plan, which remains a key Government priority. My colleague, the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment, Deputy Naughten, is leading the implementation of the plan.

I am pleased to say that over the past year there have been significant improvements in the level of broadband connectivity in rural areas. I understand that continued increases in coverage and capacity are planned over the coming years. The roll-out of broadband to rural areas, especially by operators such as Eir and Siro, has resulted in enhancements such as fibre to the home being deployed. Over a fortnight ago I attended the launch of a national gigabit hub at Cavan Innovation & Technology Centre where Siro provides high-speed fibre broadband to the business centre. Companies there service other companies from right across the world and provide a data management service. Broadband is essential for such work and the roll-out is happening. It is important that companies can locate their operations in towns like Cavan and similar towns in counties Kerry, Donegal and Roscommon. Deputy Murphy mentioned that there is good high-speed broadband in Roscommon.