Pat Rabbitte (Dublin South West, Labour)
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Question 72: To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the timeframe for the implementation of the European Commission's proposals to allocate €1 billion to broadband access for rural towns and communities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10509/09]

Seán Power (Kildare South, Fianna Fail)
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The proposals that the European Commission has tabled will make possible the spending of €1bn for the provision of broadband access in rural areas under the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development. The proposal requires the approval by the European Council of the European Economic Recovery Plan at the Spring Council meeting to be held on March 19th — 20th. If approved Member Sates will be required to amend their Rural Development Plan by June to facilitate the draw down of the available funds in 2009 and 2010.