John Browne (Wexford, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the Bill and the opportunity it offers us to discuss broadband provision around the country.  It should allow for increased competition in the broadband and electronic communications market, thereby reducing costs and increasing broadband coverage.  During our time in government we invested in broadband infrastructure as the technology developed and it is important that we continue to invest.  The Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources has issued a number of press releases in the last year to 18 months on extensions to broadband services in rural areas.  This is one of the issues most commonly raised by people who live in such areas.  Businesses are finding it difficult to secure the speeds necessary to develop their operations.  We receive representations from Forfás, chambers of commerce and business associations.

  Problems arise even within urban areas.  The Minister of State at the Department of Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation recently visited the Enniscorthy Enterprise Centre which was in danger of losing two of it companies because higher speeds could be achieved in Wexford town.  We have encouraged these companies to remain in Enniscorthy in the light of their importance to the local economy.  It is important that these issues be addressed.

  It is only right that the ESB should be involved in broadband provision and perhaps it is surprising that it has not been involved heretofore, given the success it has experienced in providing electricity services.  It has the broad structures required to provided modern telecommunications services.  It should work with other companies to develop a structure that would enable Ireland to compete with the rest of Europe and the world.  It is one of the better semi-State companies in that it has managed to complete the rural electrification scheme with few complications.  However, in recent times difficulties have arisen in regard to the construction of pylons.  I hope there will be no pylons within the communications service the ESB will be developing.

  The Minister referred to changes in the company's wayleave practices.  I am sure changes will be necessary if it is to provide these services, but I hope there will be engagement with people when these changes are being introduced in order that we do not have a repeat of the situation that has arisen with Eirgrid.

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