Preseli Pembrokeshire AM Paul Davies is calling for new European grants for better broadband to be easily accessible.
The European Commission has agreed to allow European funds to be used for wiping out broadband “not-spot” areas in Wales.
But Mr Davies is concerned that information on how to access the money and support in applying for it may be hard to come by.
“We have heard these good news stories about European funding being announced by the Welsh Assembly Government before but when it actually comes down to the nitty-gritty, the money often fails to trickle down to those who really need it,” he said.
“Instead it gets lost in a maze of complicated form filling, conformity details and compliance hurdles. When push comes to shove it’s just too hard to access.”
Mr Davies is now calling on the Welsh Assembly Government to fully support communities and businesses in Pembrokeshire who apply for the new funding.
The Welsh Assembly Government announced earlier this week that it plans to use European funding to improve Information and Communication Technology (ICT) activities such as digital inclusion, as well as broadband access.
New European Commission guidance makes it easier for organisations to access EU funds of up to €50,000 for ICT. “This could be really good news for Pembrokeshire businesses and communities, many of whom still really struggle with slow dial-up internet services,” added Mr Davies.
“To run a business in a rural area you have to have decent broadband speeds. I’d now like to see a properly thought-out and clear action plan from the Government spelling out exactly how people can apply for this money.”
