Tom Hayes (Tipperary South, Fine Gael)
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Question 128: To ask the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources when he expects all telephone exchanges and cable networks to be broadband enabled; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38790/06]

Noel Dempsey (Meath, Fianna Fail)
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I have no function in these matters.

Gay Mitchell (Dublin South Central, Fine Gael)
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Question 129: To ask the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if, arising from a Sunday newspaper article, his attention has been drawn to an alleged request from Eircom for the upgrading of a number of telephone lines which currently render it impossible to obtain broadband in some rural areas due to the use of shared or divided lines which were installed in the 1980s; if, as suggested, funding to the extent of €200 million has been sought from the State to facilitate such an upgrade; the full extent of such enquiries or discussions including the alternatives; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38762/06]

Noel Dempsey (Meath, Fianna Fail)
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I am aware that Eircom has highlighted the infrastructure enhancements required in order to provide broadband services throughout its network.

I also recognise that despite private and public investment in broadband infrastructure there are still some parts of the country where the private sector will be unable to justify the commercial provision of broadband connectivity. Options to address these gaps in broadband coverage are currently being considered by a Steering Group comprising officials from my Department and representatives from ComReg. I expect to finalise proposals shortly.