Liz McManus (Wicklow, Labour)
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Question 326: To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his views on the recent OECD figures showing Ireland at 20 out of a table of 30 countries for broadband access for 2008; his further views on criticisms that the national broadband scheme does not adequately address the broadband issues; his further views on whether the State should invest in Eircom's networks to improve broadband infrastructure here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48147/09]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin South, Green Party)
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Government policy pertaining to the electronic communications market in Ireland is set out in "Next Generation Broadband – Gateway to a Knowledge Ireland", which I published in June 2009. The policy paper was developed in accordance with various key principles which are crucial to the development of the market including (i) competition, at platform and service levels, which drives innovation and investment (ii) investment certainty for service providers considering investing in network infrastructure, (iii) investment intervention by Government to bridge any digital divide to address market failures and (iv) appropriate regulation.

The OECD report is the most recent in a series of periodic reports on electronic communications markets. The broadband market is a fast moving and dynamic one; this applies to all OECD countries. On this basis annual comparisons of broadband metrics between different countries cannot capture the full extent of market developments. For example the OECD report excludes improved penetration achieved using mobile technologies in calculating the ratings. Ireland has some 400,000 mobile broadband subscribers, an increase of 53.3% over the last year.

The OECD and other recent reports demonstrate that broadband access in Ireland is increasing year on year for domestic and commercial users using standard or bundled products offered by a variety of service providers across a range of fixed and wireless technologies which are capable of delivering the needs of today's applications. Major enterprises already located in, or who wish to locate in Ireland can also contract with service providers who can provide high broadband speeds wherever required.

I recognise the need to improve availability and quality of broadband in Ireland. I am satisfied that previous and current initiatives (including the National Broadband Scheme), along with a further measure being developed as part of the European Economic Recovery Plan, will address the broadband availability issue. Additionally, I am determined to ensure that targeted Government action, the proper regulatory regime and a spirit of competitive collaboration within industry will address the broadband quality issue.