Liz McManus (Wicklow, Labour)
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Question 81: To ask the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the number of meetings he has had with the Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources regarding the national broadband strategy in view of its importance to rural Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41631/09]

Éamon Ó Cuív (Galway West, Fianna Fail)
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I can confirm for the Deputy that I am in ongoing contact with my colleague, the Minister for Communications, Energy & Natural Resources, Eamon Ryan, regarding the National Broadband Scheme (NBS) because of its importance to rural communities. I am happy to note that all electoral divisions in the NBS Coverage Area are due to be covered by the end of September 2010. As Minister with responsibility for Rural Development, I see progress in broadband availability for rural areas as an important step forward in creating the opportunities for rural communities to develop on several fronts, including facilitating social and community development and enterprise opportunities.