Peter Burke (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank Deputy Flaherty for his comments. He is correct in his concerns about the funding structure for local authorities. We are working very strongly with Longford County Council and other key local authorities that were affected by the just transition. We are trying to ensure there is a solid income stream to replace the key revenues they have lost. The Department is dealing with Longford County Council and other counties in that regard. In the previous budgetary cycle, we were not found wanting in supporting them with key funding streams. We need something concrete for the future and we are working to deliver that. As Deputy Flaherty correctly points out, this initiative will speed up and assist in the delivery of high-quality broadband to all citizens.