Eamon Ryan (Dublin South, Green Party)

The figure was an initial estimate and the final cost will depend on a number of factors. The second phase of MANs contains different elements, such as a proposal for wireless MANs and fixed line MANs. The former needs clearance from the European Commission before it can be approved and go out to tender. One cannot know the exact costs.

The fundamental question relates to whether the €10 million addressed in the Supplementary Estimate passed by the Dáil affects the MANs programme. At the time, I clarified that the programme would not be affected. The €10 million in funding was included in the budget as an allocation for the national broadband scheme. Due to start in 2007, it will be delayed until early 2008 because of complications in the process. The funding was reallocated to the Greener Homes scheme. The €10 million reallocation had no consequences in terms of the contracting or spending of MANs.

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