8% increase for Communications Dept in estimates

Ministers Noel Dempsey and John Browne today announced major funding increases for key policy areas in the Department of Communications, Marine & Natural Resources in the 2007 Estimates.

"The estimates for 2007 represent an 8% increase on the funding provided to the Department in the 2006 estimates. These increases support this Government's record of sustained investment in our key infrastructure and public services," said Mr Dempsey on the publication of the estimates.

Key proposed funding increases for 2007 include:

:: An additional €10m for energy research;

:: €10m extra to support 100% nationwide broadband coverage;

:: €5m for the new National Digital Research Centre;

:: €10.7m for the establishment of the Sea Fisheries Protection Authority and

:: €2.5m boost for TG4.