Dáil Éireann - Volume 666 - 06 November, 2008

Written Answers. - Telecommunications Services.

Deputy Michael Ring Deputy Michael Ring

Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources when broadband will be rolled out to an area (details supplied) in County Mayo. [39044/08]

Deputy Eamon Ryan Deputy Eamon Ryan

  Deputy Eamon Ryan: The provision of telecommunications services including broadband is, in the first instance, a matter for the private sector. Broadband service providers operate in a fully liberalised market, regulated, where appropriate, by the independent Commission for Communications Regulation, ComReg. I have no role in private sector broadband infrastructure investment undertaken by broadband service providers. However, it is hoped that the facilitation of greater competition in the sector via the introduction of broadband from different technology platforms, will encourage more rapid enabling of all exchanges for broadband.

I would add that in addition to fixed landline broadband, otherwise known as Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) or broadband over telephone lines, broadband services are available from competing service providers over multiple platforms including cable, fixed wireless and increasingly mobile. I understand that Belclare already has broadband on offer from a number of service providers.

Dáil Éireann 666 Written Answers. Telecommunications Services.

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