Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 20 September 2022
71. Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if his Department has developed a vision for the way in which broadband connectivity can transform lives, particularly in Ireland’s regions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45645/22]
View answerThe National Broadband Plan is a key enabler for the for delivering strategies across a number of key sectors including climate, agriculture, education, transport, tourism, sustainable growth, jobs and health. The Government believes in the transformational benefits of broadband and earlier this year the Government's National Digital Strategy - "Harnessing Digital - The Digital Ireland Framework", was launched to drive and enable digital transition across the Irish economy and society. This high-level framework sets out a pathway to support Ireland’s ambition to be a digital leader at the heart of European and global digital developments; and places a strong emphasis on inclusiveness, security and safety, underpinned by strong governance and a well-resourced regulatory framework.
A combination of commercial investment and the State led intervention will ensure access to high speed broadband in every part of the country and no premises will be left behind, no matter how remote. Of the 2.4 million premises across Ireland, 77% of premises now have access to high-speed broadband of more than 30 Mbps. National Broadband Ireland is addressing the premises in the intervention area through the National Broadband Plan State intervention.
A number of commercial operators have announced further investment plans in fixed high-speed broadband infrastructure. Eir intends to roll out fibre to a further 1.6 million premises, bringing its fibre deployment to 1.9 million premises: SIRO is currently completing the first phase of its fibre deployment and to date has passed more than 450,000 premises with gigabit services. It recently announced plans to extend its network by an additional 320,000 premises. Virgin Media intend to provide gigabit broadband upgrades for 1 million premises over the next 3 years. Many other network operators and telecom service providers across the State also continue to invest in their networks. These investments, together with the ongoing significant investments in mobile networks, including 5G, will ensure that Ireland has the necessary connectivity to support its wider digital ambitions.
