Joe Walsh (Cork South West, Fianna Fail)
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Question 148: To ask the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the steps he intends to take to roll-out the metropolitan area network to additional towns throughout the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36072/05]

Noel Dempsey (Meath, Fianna Fail)
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The provision of telecommunications, including broadband, is a matter in the first instance for the private sector companies operating in a fully liberalised market, regulated by the independent Commission for Communications Regulation, ComReg.

The Government is addressing the infrastructure deficit by building high-speed open access metropolitan area networks in 120 towns and cities nationwide, on a phased basis in association with the local and regional authorities. Phase 1 has delivered fibre optic networks to 27 towns and cities, which were built on time and under budget. The programme has been extended to over 90 towns in various locations nationwide. Design and procurement has already commenced in several regions and construction is due to start early in 2006. It is expected that these networks will be completed during 2006 and 2007.

The Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources also offers funding assistance for smaller towns and rural communities to become self-sufficient in broadband through the county and group broadband scheme. To date, over 150 projects have been approved for funding under this programme. Full details of the regional broadband programme can be found on the Department's website, www.dcmnr.gov.ie.