Brian Stanley (Laois, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I am referring to programme A. Overall expenditure on communications has decreased. The trading online fund has decreased. Is there a reason for that? What supports are in place for small businesses?

I welcome the fact that the online trading voucher scheme output has increased. The targeted output for this year is 1,500. That is welcome but the amount of money is relatively small. As we know, the volume of trade online is increasing. Small businesses need more supports. Many of them are in the regions, where we are trying to develop jobs. The Minister might indicate why the expenditure is down.

With regard to the €15 million for the national broadband scheme, my first concern is about the timeframe. The funding is also an issue. The Minister told us previously there was a staff of 80. How far will the €15 million carry us this year if the procurement is not secured until November or December, for example? Is it adequate? The concern is over whether it is being given enough priority because we are down to one bidder. The project is obviously long overdue. We have rehearsed the matter of the delays time and again. The funding seems to be modest. Is it sufficient? How far will it carry us this year? The longer the process goes on, the longer 80 salaries will have to be paid, along with the legal expenses and associated ancillary payments.