Paschal Mooney (Fianna Fail)

I do not mind Senator Ryan interrupting me. We are good friends and he enjoys this type of debate.

At the end of 2005, EU 15 broadband take up was 14% of the population or 34% of households which compares reasonably favourably considering the low base from which we started. I must accept that one of the reasons we started off at such a low level in the take-up league tables reflects the relatively late launch of competitive broadband service in Ireland by telecoms and cable television companies.

I share the Government's aim to increase competition so that consumers and businesses can benefit from cheaper broadband and more choice. Incidentally, broadband is widely available in the €20 to €30 per month price band. I agree the combination of competition and regulation is driving down prices. DSL prices fell by approximately 25% during 2005. There is a key element of this on which the Government should move as rapidly as it can because I believe it has been going on for years. I remember when the Leader of the House was Minister with responsibility for this area and she referred to local loop unbundling. I had an idea it was something to do with making hay but it was the technical term for allowing more competition into the market.