Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 10 November 2004
169 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the progress that has been made in the provision of broadband access; when broadband access will be made available at locations (details supplied); if there are plans to bring broadband to other areas in Tipperary; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28234/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe provision of telecommunications services, including broadband, is a matter in the first instance for the private sector companies operating in a fully liberalised market, regulated by ComReg, the Commission for Communications Regulation. Recognising that the private sector companies have been slow to invest in the provision of the necessary infrastructure in many areas, the Government set aside an indicative €200 million under the national development plan for infrastructure investment under the regional broadband programme that will enable the provision of broadband services by the private sector.
Under the first phase of the programme 26 metropolitan area networks, MANs, are being built in association with the local authorities. The MANs are being managed for the State on an open-access basis by E-Net, who have been awarded the services concession contract. Under the second phase of the programme, MANs are being built in 92 towns with a population of 1,500 and over. Grant agreements with the local authorities are being drawn up in respect of the first 44 and work is expected to begin by the end of the year.
Nenagh is included in the next phase of the rollout and calls for proposals in respect of a further 50 towns, including Roscrea, Templemore and Borrisoleigh, will issue in the New Year. Full details of the broadband rollout programme can be found on my Department's website, www.dcmnr.gov.ie, and full details of the service providers offering broadband services in County Tipperary may be found on www.broadband.gov.ie.
