Dáil debates

Thursday, 7 February 2008

 

Telecommunications Networks.

4:00 pm

Photo of Michael AhernMichael Ahern (Cork East, Fianna Fail)

I agree. It is a disgrace that broadband has not been developed. Last December, the Minister met with John McElligott, managing director of eBay, who had written to outline his concern at the pace of roll-out of high speed internet access. The Minister agreed with him and described the Government's actions in promoting broadband, including demands and further proposals for next generation networks. He said that the enterprise advisory group raised the issue of State investment in this infrastructure which the Government had to consider.

The Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources asked Mr. McElligott for his views on next generation networks. Mr. McElligott said he intended to discuss matters further with the Minister. The Minister is well aware of the views of the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment on communications infrastructure.

In respect of next generation broadband, the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources is finalising a policy paper on the optimum role of the Government in its development, which is vital to ensure a state-of-the-art communications network. I hope the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, Deputy Eamon Ryan, will have it to hand as soon as possible.

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