“’3’, is contracted to provide wireless broadband services in the National Broadband Scheme. Mobile broadband speeds are regularly far below the maximum advertised speed and I am concerned that this may not meet the needs particularly of those in the business context.”

“Furthermore, the Minister claims that Ireland will have “100% broadband coverage by 2010.” Many people here in County Clare are very unhappy with the failure to date to provide Broadband in their areas. Take for example the people of Kildysart and Ballynacally who were promised that broadband would be available in early 2008 and they are still waiting. There are huge black spots throughout the County from East to West Clare.”

“The Map of Clare provided by ‘3’ shows the areas to be covered under the current scheme and people can check themselves on line to see if their area is included in the latest scheme. However, I have already checked for several constituents of mine and I was very disappointed to note that they will not be included in the current proposal. I will be raising this matter on their behalf with Minister Ryan and if it is the case that their area is not covered it will make a mockery of the Ministers latest claims.”

“Affordable broadband availability is now more important than ever in rural Ireland. Businesses throughout the country are now looking at different ways of working and investing in a modern IT infrastructure is absolutely essential in order to facilitate these changed circumstances.”