Tim Lombard (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Cathaoirleach for his introduction. Several issues have been raised by previous speakers. I will focus on the broadband issue which has been raised by many Senators and which is very important for rural Ireland. Yesterday's announcement was very unfortunate whereby two tenders were reduced to just one. Originally, there were three tenders but now we have only one. Broadband and roads are two of the biggest issues for rural Ireland. There is a disconnect at the moment. I equate the lack of broadband with the electrification scheme introduced in the 1950s and 1960s. Broadband has been promised to be delivered since 2012. Broadband services need to be up and running this year. Yesterday, the Minister said that he hopes a contract will be signed next September and that works will begin by the end of the year. We have been given deadlines and guidelines, but has any work been done on the ground? Broadband must be rolled out sooner rather than later.

I ask the Leader to invite the Minister to come before the House to debate the issue of broadband. It needs to be addressed one way or another. If the matter cannot be addressed, then we need to hear plan B. We originally had three tenders but that has gradually been reduced to just one. What is plan B if the remaining tender is withdrawn?