Seán Kyne (Galway West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

In respect of the roll-out of rural broadband, has a decision been made on whether one company will receive a tender or whether it will be split into regional areas? Second, how does the ESB (Electronic Communications Networks) Act 2014, which was passed some time ago, fit in? Presumably it will be ready in order that a company may co-operate with the ESB to use its infrastructure for direct roll-out and the direct provision of high-speed broadband into people's houses.

The provision of broadband to rural areas is a necessity at this stage. It is not a luxury; it is a requirement for those who work at home. People have told me that they have to drive to their local GAA club to get coverage because the area in which they live does not have adequate cover.

See this speech in context