Joan Burton (Dublin West, Labour)
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Question 232: To ask the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if his Department's attention has been drawn to the inadequate broadband service to the Palmerstown area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16604/05]

Noel Dempsey (Meath, Fianna Fail)
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I understand that the telephone exchanges serving the Palmerstown area have been enabled for the provision of DSL broadband, and a number of service providers are marketing broadband in the area.

While the principal broadband technology in use in Ireland is digital subscriber line, DSL, which is also the situation in most European countries, there are technical limitations to the service, such as line quality and distance from the exchange. Even though a line may be in an enabled exchange it may not be suitable for DSL broadband. If a telephone line cannot carry DSL, other technologies may be considered, such as wireless, cable modem or satellite. My Department's website, www.broadband.gov.ie, lists a number of service providers who offer broadband in the Palmerstown area, including nine DSL, one wireless and 11 satellite service providers. The website also gives comparative details of prices and service levels.

The provision of telecommunications services, including broadband, is a matter for the private sector companies operating in a fully liberalised market. Recent press announcements by some of the major service providers indicate a growing level of competition in the broadband market, and a considerable increase in availability. I expect these trends to continue.