Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank both Deputies for their responses. In answer to Deputy Calleary, I note that the protection of rural communities is a matter on which the NTA has made a statement which is clearly supported by all Members in the House. The NTA says that if rural communities are adversely affected, or indeed any community is affected, it will move in as it has done in the past and ensure and guarantee that connectivity continues. It is an issue for rural communities in particular. The Government supports the NTA fully in that regard and it will be done by way of PSO services. As such, let us not use this debate to scare people into thinking they are going to be abandoned. That is not the case. The NTA has offered to come to the House and brief individuals on this issue so that they can reassure themselves and their communities of this. I am sure I will see Deputy Troy there if he gets up that morning.

See this speech in context