Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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Question 351: To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the extent to which plans are afoot or likely to materialise with the objective of dramatically enhancing the quality and speed of broadband services here with a view to achieving a quality of service equal to the best in Europe; if he has had any discussions with the various service providers regarding same; when it is expected that the enhanced standards are likely to prevail; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30999/12]

Pat Rabbitte (Dublin South West, Labour)
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There is a commitment in the Programme for Government to co-invest with the private sector and commercial Semi State sector to provide Next Generation Broadband customer access and associated fast speeds to every home and business in the State.

The Next Generation Broadband Taskforce (NGBT) report, which I launched on 2 May last, will have an important role to play in this regard. The Taskforce, which I chaired, comprised the CEOs of ten broadband services providers. The industry participants included the major telecommunications companies operating in the Irish market, as well as CEOs of some other companies that provide broadband services.

In launching the report, I also commenced a public consultation to allow all other interested parties to comment on the document and to offer any additional or alternative proposals. The public consultation closed in early June and more than 50 responses were received. My Department is currently considering the responses received and related matters. Building on the work of the Taskforce and the responses received, it is my intention to bring proposals for a National Broadband Plan to Government shortly with a view to agreeing a comprehensive set of policy actions to underpin the provision of high speed services on a national basis which will take due account of the NGBT report and the additional responses received.