Noel Dempsey (Meath, Fianna Fail)

I do not have the level of detail the Deputy requests on MANs but I will provide him with as much information as possible. Where the MANs are in operation they are used by almost all operators including Eircom for enhancing its network. It is used extensively by service providers in various parts of the country.

My optimism for take up of broadband arises from the introduction of the metropolitan area networks, 19 of which are now in place with an additional seven currently being built. The schools broadband programme is also rolling out, and all schools will have it by the end of this year. That will have a revolutionary effect in increasing the level of demand. I met the co-ordinators of the county broadband group scheme yesterday. They referred to approximately 500 more communities availing of that scheme throughout the country, and a significant level of interest. I base my optimism on that demand and interest. If the Deputy drops me a note on those specific points I will be delighted to provide him with the information.

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