Joe McHugh (Donegal North East, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 10: To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will explain in greater detail his plans to improve the international broadband connections between Ireland and other countries as outlined in his consultation paper on next generation broadband, in particular plans to improve connectivity between the north west of Ireland and the USA; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28184/08]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin South, Green Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

On 3 July 2008 I published a "Consultation Paper on Next Generation Broadband" which included various Government commitments including a commitment on international telecommunications connectivity.

I intend to build on the success of the Global Crossing project and have asked my officials to examine (i) existing international connectivity capacity and (ii) the potential for the existing providers of international connectivity to expand their operations to meet future demand. My officials will also assess the likely need for additional international connectivity that might arise as a result of the predicted increase in demand for media rich applications and services, including streaming video, high definition television over internet protocol, online gaming, and so called "web 2.0" services like social networking and trading sites. All of these services use much more bandwidth than standard email and search facilities. Additionally, the security of supply of international telecommunications connectivity will be examined by my officials. While I understand that the supply of international connectivity is currently adequate to meet existing demand, I wish to ensure that we are well placed to intervene to guard against the development of any bottlenecks on our international connections.

In recent months my Department has been working with the Northern Ireland Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment (DETI) on the preparation of a tender to procure direct international connectivity to the North West of the island of Ireland. The tender for the project, called project Kelvin, was issued by DETI last week.

The tender is seeking:

A direct international telecommunications connection between North America and the North West of the island of Ireland.

Improved international connectivity between mainland Europe and the North West of the island.

The provision of a telehouse facility in Derry, which will provide telecommunications operators and end users with open access to the above international links.

Onward connectivity from the Derry telehouse to the Metropolitan Area Networks in Letterkenny and Monaghan.

The expected outcome is that the three locations, Derry, Letterkenny and Monaghan and their surrounding towns and villages, will be more attractive for direct investment, especially for businesses in the internationally traded services sector that require high capacity international broadband links.