Paudie Coffey (Waterford, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister and his officials for bringing the Bill before the House.

I welcome the passage of the Bill. The weaknesses in the broadband infrastructure have been highlighted by Deputies on all sides of the House and it is important to note the concerns expressed by colleagues, especially those who represent rural Ireland and the regions. However, I firmly believe this legislation will be a game-changer in the delivery of broadband infrastructure. These networks will provide the opportunity to reach parts of Ireland that were never reached before. I understand the commercial element and that the service-providers will target clusters of population but the Bill empowers those service-providers and the ESB to reach out to other communities who had not been reached before. We have been playing catch-up as a result of the lack of investment in telecommunications infrastructure. This legislation will increase competition in the sector and present opportunities to expand fibre network into areas in the country which could not be reached heretofore. I welcome the Minister's assurances to the House that this service-provider, along with all service-providers will be monitored to ensure the provision of broadband to the citizens and regions of the country. The Minister has assured us that he will pursue the national broadband plan, which is essential. This Bill is an important step in the provision of high standard quality broadband and it is to be welcomed.

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