Noel Coonan (Tipperary North, Fine Gael)
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Question 476: To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources when fibre optic connection will be made available to a person (details supplied) in County Tipperary; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35723/10]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin South, Green Party)
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The provision of telecommunication services, including services delivered through fibre optic connections, is primarily a matter for service providers who operate in a fully liberalised market regulated by an independent telecommunications regulator, the Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg).

State intervention in the commercial telecommunications market only occurs in instances of market failure. The National Broadband Scheme and the Government funded Metropolitan Area Networks programme are examples of where such interventions were required.

There are a number of platforms for the delivery of telecommunications and service providers are now offering broadband by wireless, satellite, fibre, co-axial cable, mobile, or standard telephone copper lines. All areas of the country are served by at least two platforms (satellite and one other). Most areas are served by more than two competing service providers.

ComReg operates a dedicated website www.callcosts.ie where potential broadband customers can ascertain the availability of services from alternative service providers. The information on availability and pricing is provided by the servicer providers. All broadband services are subject to survey.