Emer Currie (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

As usual, the Minister of State has gone right to the nub of the issue, which is striking the right balance and making sure that people have access to modern digital services in order that they can lead modern lives. For me, the issue is how this is managed. It does seem like the Wild West as telecommunication masts have been erected on public roads, footpaths and greens. It costs €125 to purchase a licence fee and I wonder if the process can be verified by an overstretched planning department that we want to see busy tackling other issues like housing. Does every operator need one? Can this issue be managed? Can people be made part of this process like we do with all other planning applications in local areas? I ask that because people feel disempowered and that is never a good position to be in. If coverage is needed, and it can be proved that it is needed and is in the best area, then people will accept it but at the moment they have no voice.