Labour Spokesperson on Communications, Deputy Tommy Broughan, has welcomed the announcement of a new National Development Plan (NDP) but warned of the necessity of prioritising the development of telecommunications networks to tackle the serious infrastructural deficit he says has been created by the present NDP (2000-2006).
Labour Spokesperson on Communications, Deputy Tommy Broughan
Deputy Broughan commented, "It is now clear that the attention given to advanced communications infrastrucuture, especially broadband, and other related ICT matters in the current NDP 2000-2006 was completely inadequate."
Minister for Defence Willie O'Dea confirmed on Wednesday that the country was to have a new seven-year national development plan when the current one runs out at the end of 2006.
The plan, which was widely anticipated, will provide for the further strategic development of services in education, regional development, health, transport and infrastructure, among other areas.
A full consultation process, which will be overseen by the Department of Finance, will involve social partners, regional interests and other concerned groups is to begin this autumn.