Phil Hogan
Ceist:251 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Transport, Energy and Communications the reason an MMDS system in County Carlow is not operating; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - MMDS System.
The provision of service in any particular MMDS cell is a matter for the franchisee concerned. A number of factors can affect the start up date for providing service such as transmitter site identification and acquisition, planning permission, site development and the ordering and delivery of equipment. The MMDS franchisee for Carlow was also awarded the franchise for Kilkenny. The franchisee was required to go through a protracted planning process in relation to the Kilkenny cell and, subsequently, obstruction from local residents at the transmitter site forced a change from the selected site. The delays caused in Kilkenny had knock on effects on the franchisee's ability to develop the Carlow cell.
I understand that work on the identification of a suitable transmitter site for the Carlow cell is progressing and the franchisee hopes to provide the service there as soon as is practicable.