June 2008 – Gaps in Broadband Coverage to be addressed

Deputy Aine Brady has been informed by the Minister for Communications, Eamon Ryan TD, that it is his priority to ensure that

the final gaps in Broadband Coverage will be addressed in the near future. The information came following a Parliamentary

Question to the Minister after Deputy Brady raising the issue of Broadband Coverage in the Timahoe area.

'Although broadband is now widely available in Ireland there are still some parts of the country where the private sector will be unable to justify the commercial provision of broadband services.  These areas are being addressed by the National Broadband Scheme (NBS), which will provide broadband services to areas that are currently unserved and will ensure that all reasonable requests for broadband are met.' stated Deputy Brady.

'The first phase of the NBS procurement process (Pre-Qualification Questionnaire (PQQ)) is now complete.  The remaining candidates have been engaged in "Competitive Dialogue" with the Department and are developing their proposed solutions to meet the Department's requirements.'

'The widespread provision of broadband services continues to be a priority for the Government.  It is currently expected that a preferred bidder for the NBS will be selected in September 2008, with rollout to commence as soon as possible thereafter.' concluded Deputy Brady.

Details of broadband suppliers, prices and locations throughout the country are available on www.broadband.gov.ie.

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