Jim Higgins (Fine Gael)

candidate EU elections
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Do you support Government intervention in the development of a Next Generation Broadband network?

The provision of broadband to rural customers is not economically justifiable for big telcos. Therefore the government must act to ensure that the estimated 75% of rural homes who cannot access affordable broadband will be able to do so in the future.

In 2008 the government entered in to a contract with "3." This aims to give 100% broadband accessibility to the National Broadband Scheme area by September 2010.

However the proposed coverage map for the NBS would see many areas excluded from the scheme. I propose that EU funding - for which this project is eligible under the ERDF 2007-2013 - be used to extend the area covered by the NBS.

The total value of the investment required to implement the National Broadband Scheme is c. €223m, of which the Government is contributing €79.8m.

This is a considerable investment for the government and it is worrying to note that the NBS has already been criticised as not being future-proofed to the degree necessary in order to allow for future advances in broadband services.

Do you accept that the development of a proper broadband network will create jobs and help to secure Ireland’s future in a very competitive global market?

Yes. It is essential that Ireland invest in its future, not to do so would lead to our economic isolation.

What steps will you take to bridge the digital divide?

I will raise the issue of Irish broadband investment and funding with the Commission and internally through my political group.

Do you support the nationalisation of Eircom?

No. Both Fine Gael and I are against the renationalisation of Eircom. We favour increased competition as a means by which we can bring lower prices and better services to the people of Ireland.

Do you agree that broadband should be made part of the telecoms Universal Service Obligation?

Yes I do. This would allow broadband the status it deserves as an essential tool for communication and business operations. It would also allow Ireland to satisfy European Commission policy to achieve broadband internet for all Europeans by 2010.

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