Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputy. This plan was debated extensively throughout the lifetime of the last Dáil. Whatever my concerns around ownership issues and contractual arrangements, and they were real concerns, I was always supportive of the need for a rural broadband system. I am happy to take responsibility for making sure that we deliver it. It is not the only critical infrastructure that we need. Outside the areas covered by the broadband plan, ongoing investment from the likes of Eir, SIRO and other operators will be needed. I absolutely agree with some of the options mentioned by the Deputy, such as improving planning permission requirements so that ducting is included in any new building project, including homes. That absolutely makes sense, as does the sharing of masts or other site systems. This plan does not prevent us from engaging with a range of other initiatives. It does ensure that we leave nobody behind. In light of the increased importance and benefits of broadband, I particularly wish to accelerate delivery to those houses that were previously expected to be provided for in latter years. I hope to deliver to them ahead of schedule.

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