Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

A procurement process is ongoing and I am working closely with the Minister, Deputy Naughten, on this matter. It is important that the procurement process proceed. As Deputy Ó Cuív knows, it is a complicated one. Approximately five consortia will bid for three lots. This process will deliver the national broadband plan.

Where I come in is in the rural aspect. Once the tender has been awarded, responsibility for the rural elements falls to my Department. In the meantime, there is much that I can do with local authorities to prepare for the national broadband plan once it is ready to be rolled out. I will meet the local authorities' chief executives shortly to determine what roadblocks must be cleared away. What everyone in rural Ireland wants, including the Deputy and me, is broadband. That is the most important thing.

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