Seanad debates
Thursday, 6 July 2023
Nithe i dtosach suíonna - Commencement Matters
Broadband Infrastructure
9:30 am
Ossian Smyth (Dún Laoghaire, Green Party) | Oireachtas source
High-speed broadband has become a basic utility, like having water or electricity. I am told by estate agents that it is the number one feature for selling a house in rural Ireland. It is critical to any business. I understand that. This is a seven year roll-out plan. It started in 2020 and will be complete at the end of 2026. I can imagine the disappointment of people whose premises is scheduled to be connected in 2026 but that is the rate at which it is being delivered. It will be delivered on time and within budget. The options for anyone who needs to do something in the meantime are fixed wireless access or low-earth orbit satellite connection. They are the two stop-gap solutions for people waiting to get a connection. If the Senator gives me the contact details of the company, I would be happy to liaise with it directly or have my office work with it to see if something can be done in the meantime.
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