Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fine Gael)
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Question 233: To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources when he expects to receive the draft policy paper on next generation broadband networks; if he will implement the value for money and policy review of phase one of the MANs programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4244/08]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin South, Green Party)
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In response to recent industry announcements, and developments internationally, my Department is 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 roll-out of next generation broadband.

I have established an expert International Advisory Forum on Next Generation Broadband that will meet on 26 and 27 February 2008 to critically evaluate policy issues, options and recommendations contained in the draft paper. Where appropriate, the draft paper will be amended to reflect the Forum's views. Thereafter I will quickly publish the paper for public consultation.

Phase I of the MANs Programme is complete in that twenty seven MANs have been completed and are currently being managed by eNet, the Managed Services Entity for Phase I. A Value for Money and Policy Review (VFMPR) of Phase I of the MANs Programme is being finalised and is due to be published in the coming weeks. Both the VFMPR and the policy paper on Next Generation Broadband will guide the development of policy in this important area.