The provision of telecommunications services is a matter in the first instance for the private sector companies operating in a fully liberalised market. Recognising that the private sector lacks adequate resources to fund major infrastructure projects, my Department has undertaken a number of initiatives to facilitate the roll-out of advanced communications infrastructure, including digital subscriber lines, to regional Ireland using European Regional Development Fund and Government funding. The availability of open-access, affordable, always-on broadband infrastructure and services is the Government's priority aim under the national development plan. Under the communications and e-commerce measure of the NDP, funding of approximately €200 million is being utilised to leverage and accelerate investment in competitive advanced infrastructure and services, to enhance the potential for the development of electronic commerce and enable the electronic provision of public services, including education, welfare and health services.