Kevin Humphreys (Dublin South East, Labour)
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Question 18: To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he is satisfied with the international connectivity for broadband and information service cables here; the number of transnational connections Ireland has; if any strategic review has been performed in this area by him; if not, if he has any plans to carry out such a study; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2568/12]

Pat Rabbitte (Dublin South West, Labour)
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The provision of telecommunications services, including international electronic communication connectivity, is primarily a matter for the private sector, regulated where appropriate by the Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg). The island of Ireland has many international telecommunications cables, providing international connectivity to the country. There are transatlantic subsea telecommunications cables providing direct connectivity between Ireland and the USA and subsea cables connecting Ireland to the UK and on to Europe through the UK.

I understand the availability and capacity of international connectivity services are more than adequate for foreseeable needs. As the Deputy may be aware, the telecommunications market in Ireland is fully liberalised and the State's ability to intervene in the market is limited to cases of demonstrated market failure and other limited situations. I am also aware that there are a number of international connectivity projects either planned or underway which, if delivered, would enhance the international connectivity of the country. I fully support and welcome the prospect of these projects coming to fruition, thereby improving the speed and availability of international connectivity in the country.

My officials are constantly monitoring developments in this area, including maintaining contact with the industry users of international connectivity to understand their requirements, and the providers of such connectivity, to understand how the policy environment might facilitate additional connections.