Pat Gallagher (Donegal, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

It is not true to say it is confined to 300,000. That figure was increased substantially. If it could be done then, why can it not be done now? The Minister of State is from rural Ireland. I ask him to consult Eir at least to determine what it would cost to deal with the blackspots, which could be linked up quite easily? Those who want to avail themselves of the service, for business purposes and others, could make a contribution. What is happening does not make sense. If the private sector operated in the way the Government is now operating, it would not survive. There are opportunities. The Minister of State should at least take it upon himself to speak to representatives of Eir. I have done so and believe they are anxious to assist, but they would have to get the political direction from the Department and Minister. I hope the briefing the Minister of State is getting from the Minister will be helpful. I acknowledge that while the Minister is from Dublin, he understands rural Ireland. Now is the time to take action. It will not happen unless the Minister of State or Minister takes the initiative.

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