Terry Leyden (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

This is one of the most important stages in Ireland. The Dáil and the Seanad are the most important stages in Ireland. In every election in recent years Fine Gael stated in its manifesto that it would provide broadband for every house in the country. That has not happened and it will not happen for a very long time. It is a myth. It is a great day when a contract is signed, but Mr. Robert Watt and others questioned the signing of it as much of the fibre would not be rolled out until beyond 2020 or 2026. All I am saying is there is a need for broadband. How it is provided is a matter of judgment. The Government will be judged on the issue. It is very strange that the former Minister was accused of being too friendly with Mr. McCourt and left office, while the Minister seemed to have been influenced by him. I say, "Well done," to Mr. McCourt, for whom it is a great day. I wish him luck in that regard.