617. Deputy William Aird asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht the progress made in the delivery and expansion of the Broadband Connection Points initiative; the number of Broadband Connection Points currently operational in each county; the supports and thematic programmes being provided through these locations to improve digital skills, education, remote working and community connectivity; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54557/26]

Broadband Connection Points (BCP) were an initiative under the National Broadband Plan (NBP) in collaboration with the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht.

They provide high-speed broadband connectivity in some of the most isolated and rural communities throughout the country. 300 BCP's have been installed in publicly accessible buildings such as community centres, libraries, sports facilities, tourist locations and other public spaces. A breakdown by county is provided below.

My department has funded several projects in BCP's which demonstrate the opportunities that connectivity and remote delivery offers, and provide solutions to challenges or address gaps in service that have been identified by the Department, local authorities or other stakeholders. Projects in thematic areas such as Digital Skills and Education, Arts and Culture and Remote Working have been developed in partnership with key stakeholders and rolled out to suitable BCP's across the network.

BCP's by county: