AQW 21021/17-22

Mr Andrew Muir
Alliance Party
North Down

Tabled Date: 25/06/2021
Answered On Date: 14/07/2021
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Assembly Commission, in light of increased use as a result of video conferencing and general technological developments, whether it plans to review the broadband speed provided at Members' constituency offices.

Answer:

The contract for the Assembly Commission’s broadband service to constituency offices was awarded to Atlas Communications Ltd on 21 September 2016 and runs until 20 September 2021.

Under the contract, internet speeds are available up to a maximum of 40Mbps download and 2Mbps upload, both of which are fixed for the duration of the contract period. However, the performance of the broadband service in respect of each individual constituency office is heavily influenced by a number of factors including proximity of the premises in relation to local telecommunications infrastructure and the size and physical layout of the office.

The IS Office is currently analysing and reviewing the overall provision of internet services to constituency offices and will make proposals to the Assembly Commission.