Brendan Kenneally (Fianna Fail)

It is timely to have an update on the broadband issue. I ask for a debate on the matter because the Joint Committee on Communications, Marine and Natural Resources last week launched its report on broadband. One section of the report deals with future proofing of broadband. It states that when infrastructural projects are going ahead the ducting and casing should be put in. It has come to my notice that in the current construction of an enormous ring road in Waterford ducting for broadband is not being put down. This means that in a year or two the road will be dug up to put down ducting and casing. I am not referring to just that road, but to other projects throughout the country. This work should be carried out when roads are being constructed. The Department has not yet provided funding in this instance. The Minister should come to this House to debate the matter.