Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 6 May 2014
114. Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will be reviewing the provision of broadband in rural areas after the publication of the CEDRA report; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19959/14]
View answerThe Report of the Commission for the Economic Development of Rural Areas (CEDRA) published on 14 April last highlights access to and cost of high quality broadband as one of the most significant challenges faced by rural communities, particularly from a business perspective. It points to the need for significant State investment to ensure delivery of next generation broadband outside of principal urban areas.
The CEDRA report makes a number of recommendations regarding the provision of next generation services to rural areas. The strategy for the State intervention under the National Broadband Plan which I announced on 25 April is very much in line with the recommendations of the CEDRA report. I outlined the key elements of the strategy in reply to Priority Question No. 5 on today's Order Paper. I believe that this strategy, which involves a major telecommunications network build out to rural Ireland with fibre as a foundaton for future proofed broadband services, will definitively address current connectivtiy challenges being experienced in rural areas. It also provides a solution capable of scaling up over multiple platforms and responding to new developments and will ensure that speeds can increase in line with demand, a key point referred to in the CEDRA report.
I fully share the concerns outlined in the CEDRA report about the quality of broadband in rural areas. It is my intention to deliver a solution which will ensure that rural Ireland enjoys similar opportunities to urban areas. In committing to a fibre build-out at the heart of this strategy, the Government is reaffirming its commitment to addressing current connectivity challenges in a meaningful and sustainable way and recognises that quality and reliable broadband is a necessity for a 21st century economy and society.
