Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 26 Mar 1998

Vol. 489 No. 2

Written Answers. - Telecommunications Investment.

Brendan Howlin

Question:

46 Mr. Howlin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment her views on the analysis consultancy report for Forfás on broadband telecommunications investment in Ireland on the telecommunications network and the costs to Irish business; and the way in which she will implement that report. [7680/98]

David Stanton

Question:

92 Mr. Stanton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment her views on the recent report published by Forfás which dealt with the Irish telecommunications industry; if her attention has been drawn to the proposed inward investment projects which may have been lost because of the alleged inadequacies in the telecommunications industry; the views of the IDA on the issue; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7784/98]

Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment (Miss Harney)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 46 and 92 together.

I welcome the Forfás report on broadband telecommunications investment in Ireland as it makes a significant contribution to the consideration of telecommunications investment in the State and its impact on industrial development.

The conclusions in the report now require consideration by the Minister for Public Enterprise and/or the Government as appropriate. I will ensure that my Department continues to collaborate with the Department of Public Enterprise, other relevant Government Departments and the industrial development agencies in an ongoing effort to enhance the contribution of telecommunications services to the competitiveness of Ireland and Irish business.