Simon Coveney
Question:137 Mr. Coveney asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the progress his Department is making in relation to the promotion of wireless broadband technology and roll-out. [27059/02]
Written Answers. - Telecommunications Services.
The provision, promotion and pricing of communications infrastructure and services, including Internet access, is a matter for the private sector companies that operate in the fully liberalised telecommunications market. It is the task of the Commission for Communications Regulation to supervise access and interconnection among operators for the purpose of the provision of electronic communications services, including Internet access. My responsibility is for public policy in the sector within which these companies operate. The widest possible availability of competitive services has traditionally been an important objective of Irish telecommunications policy.
My Department is exploring the potential of satellite and wireless based technologies to promote the deployment of broadband access in Ireland, particularly in remote areas. Pilot projects utilising VSAT and wireless LAN technologies in diverse user communities, to assess their suitability as a platform for the delivery of advanced broadband services in the regions are currently under way. WLAN is a technology that was originally developed for in-house use, such as office local area networks but is increasingly seen as an alternative technology in the delivery of broadband services. Five projects have been recommended for funding of €260,510. It is intended that the projects will run from January to October 2003.