Michael Ring (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The LIS is a statutory scheme with regulations on how it works. It would take legislation for me to be able to change the rules of the scheme. The rules are there and the scheme is working around the State. We have had a few problems, but it is fine; these things happen. The LIS is a good scheme. The committee could make a suggestion. I have asked the LEADER companies, Údarás na Gaeltachta and other State organisations if they would consider making applications to take that scheme on.

I do not mind who takes it on. We are providing the funding. Once we get value for money, we are happy. My inspectors go out on a regular basis to check the LIS roads around the country to make sure they are compliant with the rules and regulations that are there.

Digital hubs and food hubs are very important. The RDRF and the town and village renewal scheme are creating jobs all over the country. There have been some great successes in Cavan and Monaghan. There have been some fantastic applications for the RDRF. As I said earlier, €169 million worth of applications have been received. We will not have money for all the projects. It will be very competitive this time. An evaluation committee will let them through and after that, we will see what funding we have to deliver as many projects as possible.

The Senator knows my views on broadband. I know the Minister of State, Deputy Canney, will add to this. My view is that it is the most important piece of infrastructure. It is not that many years ago - some members are too young to remember - when the by-election was held in 1975. At that time, the lack of lighting in certain places was a big issue in north Mayo. At that time, officials in Dublin were talking about whether or not they would give lighting to rural Ireland - whether it would be economic to do so. Broadband is the same. It is a critical piece of infrastructure that we are going to need and want and that we should have regardless of whether it involves a child in Belmullet, Blacksod or Blackrock. Children in all these locations deserve equality and should have the same facility. A child in any of these areas that do not have broadband who is doing his or her leaving certificate should have the same facility that is available in other areas so that he or she does not have to go into towns to obtain information from the Internet.