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

The mobile broadband task force has outlined a number of issues which need to be addressed at local level, and we have raised these matters regarding levies and planning fees with the local authorities. We are trying to achieve uniformity throughout the country because some counties were doing things differently. We have been able to work with local authorities. The job of the broadband officers will be to work with the various sections in the councils, whether planning, roads, IT or water, to ensure any potential barriers are identified and issues are resolved so that when the national broadband plan is being rolled out there will be no delays. They will also work with local communities, giving them information, providing them with various opportunities to use broadband in hubs and teaching them about the benefits of broadband. There is no point in having broadband if people do not use it. This is also very important, particularly in terms of creating awareness in communities and in the context of businesses which may not have an online presence. They will work with them also.

We have received a report and it will report. We report at the Cabinet subcommittee regularly on the progress being made.

See this speech in context