Phil Hogan (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fine Gael)
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Question 104: To ask the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the degree to which broadband is available on a county basis with particular reference to industrial and commercial needs in the various towns and villages throughout the country; if he intends to issue specific direction in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20700/06]

Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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Question 339: To ask the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the degree to which broadband is available on a county basis with particular reference to industrial and commercial needs in the various towns and villages throughout the country; if he intends to issue specific direction in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20825/06]

Noel Dempsey (Meath, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 104 and 339 together.

The provision of telecommunications services, 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. A principal reason for the slow rollout of broadband services generally has been the lack of investment by the private sector in the necessary infrastructure to deliver broadband to all areas.

The Government in partnership with the Local Authorities is addressing the broadband infrastructure deficit in the regions by building high-speed, open-access Metropolitan Area Networks (MANs) in 120 towns and cities nationwide. Phase One of this Programme has delivered fibre optic networks to 27 towns and cities throughout the country.

When designing the networks, the Local Authorities, in co-operation with the IDA, Enterprise Ireland and other relevant development agencies, take account of existing and proposed business parks and areas zoned for industrial development. The route of each MAN incorporates all these elements where economically and technically feasible. These networks are offering these towns opportunities to attract inward investment in advanced technology and knowledge based enterprises. This Programme has been extended to over 90 towns in various locations nationwide. It is expected that these MANs will be completed during 2006 and 2007. These networks will contribute to balanced regional development and allow the private sector to offer world-class broadband services at competitive costs.

My Department also offers funding assistance for smaller towns and rural communities through the County and Group Broadband Scheme. The scheme is technology-neutral, allowing the community to select the most suitable broadband delivery platform for the area. To date, over 150 projects have been approved for funding under this Programme.

My Department's website www.broadband.gov.ie gives full details of broadband availability in all areas, including ADSL, cable, fibre, satellite and fixed wireless. The website also lists prices of the various service levels on offer and contact details for each service provider.