Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 1 July 2008
603 Deputy Simon Coveney asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the cost to the taxpayer of the international advisory forum on next generation broadband that took place in February 2008. [25694/08]
View answerThe total cost of the international advisory forum on Next Generation Broadband that took place in February 2008 is €35,773.70.
604 Deputy Simon Coveney asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will conduct a wider consultation on the next generation broadband strategy to be published in July 2008; the length of time this consultation will last; and when he envisages the first concrete action from the State, for example the first signed contract, to take place under the strategy. [25695/08]
View answerI propose to issue a draft policy paper shortly on Next Generation Broadband. The paper will set out the framework for Government policy and related proposed actions in this area. I will be inviting comments on the draft paper through an online consultation process.
I intend that the formal consultation period will start following the publication of the consultation document and conclude in the autumn.
In addition to an online consultation process referred to above, I also propose to hold a one-day forum to hear the views of all stakeholders on the overall framework and specific policy actions.
Whilst I cannot indicate the detail of the paper and thus the timing of actions at this juncture, I can say that it is my ambition for Ireland to have a Next Generation Broadband infrastructure that will underpin a transformation to a knowledge economy based on leading edge development and application of Information Communications Technology (ICT). The paper will set out the proposed role of the Government in this regard including in relation to direct Government investment.
605 Deputy Simon Coveney asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources when the contract for the national broadband scheme will be announced; if this contract will include deadlines for the roll-out of services; when these deadlines will be; and the sanctions in place if deadlines are not met. [25696/08]
View answerThe first phase of the National Broadband Scheme (NBS) procurement process (the Pre-Qualification Questionnaire (PQQ)) is now complete. The remaining candidates have been engaged in "Competitive Dialogue" with my Department and are developing their proposed solutions to meet my Department's requirements.
Judicial Review proceedings regarding certain elements of the NBS mapping process took place on 10 and 11 June 2008 in the High Court and a judgement is awaited. While the outcome of the Judicial Review cannot be anticipated, it is currently expected that a preferred bidder for the NBS will be selected in September 2008, with rollout to commence as soon as possible thereafter.
The contract will stipulate deadlines for the roll-out of the NBS and will also include appropriate timelines and safeguards in relation to coverage. The exact details will not be known until the contract is signed.
