P J Sheehan (Cork South West, Fine Gael)
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Question 373: To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the progress made in providing broadband to the residents and businesses of a town (details supplied) in County Cork; when he expects broadband to be widely available in the area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8687/09]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin South, Green Party)
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Under Phase II of the Metropolitan Area Networks (MANs) Programme, 58 of a total of 60 MANs covering 64 towns, including Dunmanway, have been completed during 2007 and 2008. A further 2 networks are currently under construction.

All completed Phase II networks are being managed on an interim basis by technical services firm Magnum Opus on behalf of my Department, pending the engagement of a Management Services Entity (MSE) for the Phase II MANs. A process to procure an MSE is nearing completion.

The Phase II MANs contain duct, sub duct, dark fibre and co-location facilities. Under the interim MSE maintenance arrangement currently in place, dark fibre is made available to service providers, who in turn use their own equipment to light the fibre for their customers.