Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)
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Question 34: To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the measures he will bring forward to facilitate the progression of next generation networks; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21367/08]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin South, Green Party)
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I propose to issue a draft policy paper shortly on Next Generation Broadband. The paper will set out the framework for Government policy and related proposed actions in this area. I will be inviting comments on the draft paper through an online consultation process.

Whilst I cannot indicate the detail of the paper at this juncture, I can say that it is my ambition for Ireland to have a Next Generation Broadband infrastructure that will underpin a transformation to a knowledge economy based on leading edge development and application of Information Communications Technology (ICT). It is also my firm view that, in the main, it is the private sector that should build and finance Next Generation Broadband networks.

The role of Government is to ensure that the legislation and regulatory regime is such as to promote competition and investment by the private sector in Next Generation Broadband.

Direct Government investment in broadband infrastructure will be primarily targeted at supporting regional competitiveness and addressing digital divide issues. I do not see the role of Government investment as supporting one particular broadband technology or platform.

In addition to an online consultation process referred to above, I also propose to hold a one-day forum to hear the views of all stakeholders on the overall framework and specific policy actions.

As the Deputy is aware, my Department has been given the new responsibility of drawing up a new Action Plan on the Information Society. I envisage that the Broadband Policy Paper and the subsequent consultation process will be an important input into this Action Plan.