Tommy Broughan (Dublin North East, Labour)
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Question 31: To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the position regarding the National Advisory Forum on Next Generation Networks; the regularity with which this forum will meet; the time-frame for publication of its recommendations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23060/07]

Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)
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Question 59: To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the measures he will bring forward to facilitate the progression of IP based next generation networks; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23059/07]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin South, Green Party)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 31 and 59 together.

The Programme for Government contains a commitment to encourage a progressive shift to Next Generation Networks. My Department is currently preparing a draft policy paper that will review current communications infrastructure policy, and analyse policy options, in light of industry developments, in relation to the optimum role for the Government in the planning and rollout of next generation broadband.

A National Advisory Forum of telecoms experts will be established towards the end of the year to critically evaluate the policy options contained in the draft paper. The paper will published thereafter.