Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 20 September 2022
159. Deputy Jennifer Whitmore asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications when stakeholders can expect the consultation on private wires and direct lines to be released in relation to data centres (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45917/22]
View answerThe Climate Action Plan 2021 includes a commitment to review the policy position on the development of private networks/direct lines (Action 115). A consultation paper on policy options for private wires was due to be published in Q1 of this year. Unfortunately, the consultation has been delayed, however work on progressing this matter is ongoing within my Department and a consultation will issue shortly.
I appreciate that private wires/direct lines are an issue that is of interest and importance to many stakeholders, including Data Centres in particular given the recent publication of the ‘Government Statement on the Role of Data Centres in Ireland’s Enterprise Strategy’. Publishing a consultation and, ultimately, providing a clear policy position on the issue of private wires/direct lines is a priority for my Department. My officials look forward to engaging with interested stakeholders as they continue to develop this important policy area.
