The provision of telecommunications services, including broadband, is a matter in the first instance for the private sector companies operating in a fully liberalised market. There are many areas of the country where, for demographic or other reasons, the private sector has been slow to respond to demand for broadband. In cases where the market is seen to have failed, my Department is addressing the investment shortfall in infrastructure using a combination of Government and European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) funding through the Regional Broadband Programme.
My Department operates a dedicated website, www.broadband.gov.ie where potential broadband customers can ascertain the availability of services in their area. According to information provided by broadband service providers, DSL is available in the Burt and Greencastle areas and satellite is available in all three areas in question.
I recognise there are some parts of the country where the private sector will be unable to justify the commercial provision of broadband connectivity. I am currently examining options to address the delivery of competitively priced broadband services to these areas and I expect to be in a position to bring proposals to Government shortly.