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Local Authority Staff

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 3 April 2019

Wednesday, 3 April 2019

Ceisteanna (57)

Willie Penrose

Ceist:

57. Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development if he has met with local authority broadband officers since his appointment; and the local authorities he has met with on the issue of broadband provision. [3372/19]

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Freagraí scríofa

Since my appointment as Minister of State at the Department of Rural and Community Development, I have met with the Broadband Officers from all 31 Local Authorities on a number of occasions.  The Broadband Officers are co-funded by my Department and they meet collectively on a regular basis in the form of the Telecommunications Action Group, or TAG, which is convened by my Department. 

On 25th January last, I attended the TAG meeting in Galway, where I held bilateral meetings with each of the 31 Broadband Officers.  The Chief Executives or Directors of Service of each Local Authority were also present at those meetings.  Issues relating to the rollout of telecommunication services were discussed during these meetings. 

On 18th February, I attended the TAG meeting at the Dublin Smart Cities offices, where I met with the Broadband Officers from all Local Authorities to discuss similar issues.

The TAG meetings provide an invaluable opportunity for direct contact between Government officials and Broadband Officers on issues of mutual concern.  TAG meetings also provide the opportunity for the exchange of experience, expertise and ideas between members of the Broadband Officers network and for each Local Authority to outline particular areas that need to be addressed.  

Through my meetings with the Local Authorities, I have witnessed at first hand the work being carried out all over the country in relation to telecommunications provision.  I have been impressed at the enthusiasm and positivity of all of the Broadband Officers in helping to improve mobile phone and broadband services throughout the country. The role of the Broadband Officers has also been widely welcomed by industry, as it provides an important local point of contact on telecommunications matters.

Question No. 58 answered orally.
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