Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 14 July 2022
194. Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications his plans for interim solutions for householders in rural areas waiting on broadband that is some years away under the National Broadband Plan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39243/22]
View answerProviding telecommunication services, is a matter for the relevant service providers operating in a fully liberalised market regulated by the Commission for Communication Regulation (ComReg), as independent Regulator. To assist consumers in choosing a network provider, ComReg’s website has a national outdoor coverage map, with clear information on where operators have good 2G, 3G and 4G coverage
The National Broadband Plan delivered by National Broadband Ireland (NBI) will roll out a high speed and future proofed broadband network within the Intervention Area of 1.1 million people. Over 312,800 premises are design completed and over 70,700 premises can order a high-speed broadband connection across 23 counties with 63,600 premises passed with a high speed fibre broadband service across 23 counties and available for immediate connection.
NBI have agreed an Updated Interim Remedial Plan to take account of the Covid-19 pandemic and other delays. The revised target is 102,000 premises passed by end January 2023.
Broadband Connection Points (BCP) provide wireless connectivity, to support remote working and connected communities with public access to free high-speed broadband. 268 live BCP sites are in regular use, with a monthly average of 1,010 new and 6,415 returning guests across the network.
Meanwhile, the reconstituted Mobile Phone and Broadband Taskforce continues to tackle issues impeding the rollout of mobile and broadband connectivity. This includes how best planning and licensing procedures can be further streamlined and improved to support faster network rollout, and ensuring the efficient use of infrastructure and assets to support the rollout of telecoms networks into the future.
