Joe McHugh (Donegal North East, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputy again for raising this matter. It is important to point out that 85% of the 30% intervention area will be completed by 2018, but this work will start next year. In the Deputy's contribution she spoke about the potential on the islands and those living on the islands. To give a particular example, I met a person last week who works in Scotland and on Arranmore Island, who is looking for direct connectivity between Glasgow and Donegal and Arranmore Island. She highlighted the absolute need for broadband in the work in which she is involved. I completely take the Deputy's point and her proposal or suggestion to engage with the islands on the issue. This engagement has started because there has been much public discourse coming from the islands. The Deputy also mentioned education. The Department funds an art course on Sherkin Island and broadband is a prerequisite for that course.

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