Seán Sherlock (Cork East, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 90: To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his views on the Davy Report that pointed to the failures of investment in our telecoms sector as a major concern; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10136/10]

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

The report referred to by the Deputy examines the distribution of private sector capital investment over the previous decade. It highlights the excessive concentration of such investment in the housing sector and calls for an increased distribution of future capital investment in core activities that would enhance national productive capacity. The report accords with my policy paper "Next Generation Broadband – Gateway to a Knowledge Ireland", published in June 2009, which aims to facilitate private sector capital investment in electronic communications infrastructure.

I would to point out that there has in fact been significant private investment in telecommunications infrastructure, especially broadband, in recent years. This has led to a major investment in our broadband infrastructure across the different platforms of fixed line, cable and mobile. As a result, broadband coverage has been greatly extended and speeds have increased. This private investment has been complemented by State investment in cases of market failure such as the National Broadband Scheme (NBS). These developments are reflected in recent improvements in Ireland's international position on broadband provision.