Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)

In view of the appallingly slow provision of broadband on a nationwide basis, will the Government consider withdrawing the electronic communications (miscellaneous provisions) Bill and replacing it with a more comprehensive Bill that would address the issues that now affect the business and domestic community, which anxiously awaits the provision of broadband? Might such legislation be delivered along the lines it is delivered in Northern Ireland and Great Britain?

On promised legislation, what is the status of the legal costs Bill? The Tánaiste has been known to wax eloquent on this subject. It would be helpful if he could explain when the Bill is expected to be brought before the House. Is there any sense of urgency in this regard? Is it hoped to have the Bill through the House before the general election?

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