Paudie Coffey (Waterford, Fine Gael)
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To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the purpose of a proposed laying of a telecommunications under water cable between Ireland and Wales in view of the fact that there is currently a commercial cable in place; the economic gain of this plan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52042/12]

Pat Rabbitte (Dublin South West, Labour)
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The provision of international telecommunications infrastructure is a commercial matter for the companies involved, in a fully liberalised competitive market. Given our island status, our dependence on international trading and the increasing number of global ICT firms that have set up in Ireland, excellent and competitive international connectivity infrastructure is a very important contribution to economic activity and growth. I therefore welcome all investments in the provision of international connectivity and I look forward to the benefit of these infrastructures supporting further economic activity and jobs in our economy.