Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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One of the key focuses of Our Rural Future, the Government's Rural Development Policy 2021 - 2025, is optimising digital connectivity to support vibrant, sustainable rural communities. I want to close the digital divide between rural and urban communities and ensure that those living in rural communities are provided with the same opportunities as those in larger urban areas. I am working to achieve this ambition by providing significant funding and support through my Department.

For example, significant funding has been invested by my Department in the development of remote working facilities through programmes such as the Town and Village Renewal Scheme, the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund, and the Connected Hubs Call. I have also established a national network of remote working hubs, as committed to under Our Rural Future.

Broadband Connection Points (BCPs) are public locations which have been selected to receive high-speed connectivity as part of the National Broadband Plan. The locations of 284 BCPs have been selected by local authorities and include public areas such as community halls, libraries, sports facilities, enterprise hubs, tourist locations and other public spaces, such as community centres and sports clubs. They are located in rural and isolated areas including on a number of off-shore islands and support remote working, digital skills training and a range of community initiatives. In addition, 16 further sites adjacent to and serving the wide intervention area were identified specifically for remote working. 294 BCPs are now live and in operation.

I also co-chair of the Mobile Phone and Broadband Taskforce which was re-established in late 2021. The current Taskforce Work Programme includes actions relating to improved mobile phone coverage in rural areas, telecoms infrastructure, the use of public assets for telecoms purposes, and improving the quality and availability of information for consumers of telecoms services and products. The work of the Taskforce will contribute to improving communications and connectivity across Ireland in all communities.

I am committed to ensuring that the Mobile Phone and Broadband Taskforce, the Broadband Connection Points and other programmes in my Department will continue to make a central contribution to the achievement of the Government's vision for rural Ireland, as set out in Our Rural Future.