Vol. 547 No. 1
195 Mr. Higgins (Dublin West) asked the Minister for Public Enterprise the measures her Department and the ODTR are taking to ensure universal flat rate access to the Internet and universal access to broadband services for all users. [1350/02]
The regulation of costs for Internet access is an operational matter for the Office of the Director of Telecommunications Regulation. I have no function in these matters. Following the introduction by the director of flat rate Internet access codes there is no regulatory impediment to the introduction of universal flat rates for Internet access. Ultimately, it is a matter for industry players to offer flat rate Internet access.
The ODTR is satisfied that the framework for LLU in Ireland is complete. In terms of effecting widespread access to the local loop, it is ultimately a matter for individual companies to apply for such access. However, it should be noted that the introduction of flat rate Internet access is not dependent on unbundling of the local loop.
Low cost, high speed Internet access is a key element of the Government's communications policy. Under the National Development Plan, 2000 – 2006, 200 million of public funds have been earmarked to leverage investment in advance communications infrastructure and services. The focus of this investment will be to support investment in communications and electronic commerce infrastructure, systems and services in less developed areas.
The plan has as one of its objectives "the development of the Irish communications sector so that it ranks in the top decile of OECD countries in terms of service range, quality, availability and price."
