Ann Ormonde (Fianna Fail)

I welcome the Minister of State. Broadband is important and, as Senators all agree, must be available to every business, household and school. I support the amendment because the Government has acknowledged it must accelerate growth in broadband availability. The perception is that broadband availability is focused in cities and towns with rural and remote communities required to wait longer for it.

Having read the Minister's report, it is clear the Government is pressing ahead in this area. In 2004, Ireland had only 63,000 broadband subscribers, a figure which had increased to more than 400,000 in 2006. The position has improved in the past two years but where do we go from here? The Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources, Deputy Noel Dempsey, has been involved in the regulation of the sector. The notes I received today indicate the Government has established a framework that is in line with the European Union regulatory framework. ComReg, the regulatory body, is facilitating discussions at all levels in an effort to ensure the last mile, as it is described, is opened up to all operators. In addition, the Minister has urged all parties involved to co-operate in this discussion.

On broadband infrastructure, the notes indicate that the regional broadband programme covers three areas, the first of which is the metropolitan area network aimed at business, which is targeted at towns and cities with a population of more than 1,500. This network is being established by the e-net managers network and progress is being made. Although there appears to be broad satisfaction, progress must be accelerated in order that everyone can become knowledgeable about how broadband works.

The second aspect of the programme, the group broadband scheme, facilitates local people living in centres with a population of less than 1,500 to come together with service providers. Perhaps we need to push harder but I welcome Government measures to create infrastructure aimed at making progress in this area.

I understand broadband is available in practically every school. A joint industry programme brings business people and schools together to work closely on improving the network. Having asked several schools about this programme, particularly in urban areas, I am aware that it is working well. Nevertheless, we need to ensure every school has access to broadband.

The Minister is examining options to bring broadband to 100% of the population and he expects to bring proposals to the Government for discussion. A major effort is under way to advance broadband roll-out, even if this may not be proceeding as quickly as we would like.

Senator Ross noted a lack of awareness about broadband availability. He may be correct and perhaps an awareness campaign is required. I note, however, that the Government established a new information website to help consumers and business obtain the best deal in securing broadband access. A cross-Border television advertising campaign is highlighting the benefits of broadband for households and businesses and a further cross-Border campaign scheduled to run in 2007 and 2008 will focus on the safe use of the Internet.

Some commentators have expressed concern that the number of personal household computers in Ireland is too low. Ownership of personal computers has increased from 46% of households in 2004 to 60% of households in 2006. In addition, three out of ten households have purchased a broadband package. I accept, however, that this figure must increase. I note Senator Ross's arguments but we must acknowledge that the Government is making considerable efforts in this area. It has recognised the areas in which defects have arisen and introduced programmes and an awareness campaign. Perhaps the major push must focus on local communities which do not yet have broadband access. I commend the amendment to the House.