James O'Connor (Cork East, Fianna Fail)
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123. To ask the Minister for Rural and Community Development if there are plans to further increase the number of broadband connection points available across the country; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [17968/22]

Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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The Broadband Connection Points (BCPs) identification and selection process closed at the end of 2020 resulting in 300 public sites identified for a broadband connection. Since then approximately 259 Public BCPs have been connected by National Broadband Ireland (NBI) and are now in operation, with a further 41 Public BCPs due to come on stream in the coming months.

As the selection process for NBI-connected BCPs is now closed, my Department cannot directly increase the number of BCPs across the country by providing connectivity. However, it is our intention allow appropriate facilities and premises that are able to secure their own connectivity to join the nationwide BCP network in 2022.

The addition of sites to the national network will form part of the 2 year development strategy for Public BCPs currently being developed. This development strategy will also support the scaling up of successful pilot projects that commenced this year, including eHealth, remote working, arts and culture and digital skills programmes.

Membership of the network will provide new BCPs with access to a range of supports including a peer network, development programmes and activities, and specific funding opportunities available only to BCPs.

I would strongly recommend that interested communities engage with their local authority Broadband Officer and should also feel free to contact officials at my department for further information via rdi@drcd.gov.ie.