Telecommunications Services.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 7 October 2009

Wednesday, 7 October 2009

Ceisteanna (270)

Seymour Crawford

Ceist:

360 Deputy Seymour Crawford asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources when broadband will be available in Killeevan, Annalore and Newbliss; his views on the fact that it is very difficult to run a modern business which includes a post office and national lottery service without such structures; if he will ensure that the service is made available at the earliest possible date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34931/09]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources (Deputy Eamon Ryan)

My Department has entered into a contract with "3", a Hutchison Whampoa company, for the delivery of the National Broadband Scheme (NBS). 3 is required to provide services to all residences and businesses that are within the NBS area and who seek a service.

The company is progressing its network roll-out and services have gone live in a number of areas. The entire NBS area must be covered by September 2010.

The areas of Killeevan, Annalore and Newbliss will be covered by the NBS although the network roll-out has yet to be scheduled by 3. The current service status of each NBS area is available at www.three.ie/nbs.