The availability of a top quality telecommunications system, covering both fixed and mobile services, is important for economic and social development as well as for economic growth and competitiveness. It is generally recognised that one of the best ways to bring this about is to foster a pro-competition environment and a regulatory framework for the sector which stimulates ongoing investment in both infrastructure and services. Now with the advent of the full liberalisation of the Irish telecommunications sector and with growing competition, investment in telecommunications infrastructure is primarily a matter for the commercial judgment of network operators.
However, recognising that, in certain parts of the country, competition alone may not be sufficient to generate the necessary investment in advanced telecommunications infrastructure, there is a role for State intervention to ensure that certain public interest objectives are met. Such intervention includes ensuring that a certain minimum level of telecommunications services is universally available by providing for the designation of a universal service provider as well as stimulating investment in areas which might not otherwise attract sufficient investment. The ongoing development of technologies such as wireless and satellite will facilitate this process.
In total I have utilised EU aid of 26.5 million euros to leverage a total investment of 68 million euros in broadband infrastructure throughout the country. These networks will link 120 different towns throughout the country and will touch 21 counties. They will involve the laying of approximately 1,000 kilometres of optic fibre cable and will be completed by the end of this year.
In addition, £120 million has been allocated under the National Development Plan 2000-2006 for further investment in advanced telecommunications infrastructure and my Department is currently drawing up plans for this investment. Some 2.5 million euros in EU aid has also been allocated to develop a number of e-commerce demonstration projects for Irish industry. A total of 25 projects have been chosen for funding.