Denis Naughten (Roscommon-Galway, Independent) | Oireachtas source

Today, the National Competitiveness Council called for an increase in the pace of delivery of the national broadband plan, but the Government's plans to fast-track its delivery have been long-fingered. The Government has accepted the excuse that the roll-out is six months behind schedule due to disruptions caused by Covid-19. The programme's delivery is 50% behind schedule. This is at least in part due to the chequered engagement with public bodies, including some local authorities. The previous Government established the mobile phone and broadband task force to address these bottlenecks specifically. As a member of the then Cabinet, I chaired it. However, the task force has not met since the contract for the national broadband plan was signed. I want it re-established as a matter of urgency and chaired by a member of the Cabinet to show how serious this Government is about the delivery of this vital project.

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