Progress on rural broadband roll-out

Eircom’s has announced that they are to significantly expand access to high speed fibre broadband in rural Ireland, benefitting a number of areas in Clare.

Deputy Pat Breen this spells good news to the communities of Behagh, Ballyvaughan, Craggagh, Caher, Carron, Doonaha, Inagh, Knock, Kildysart, Kilkishen, Kilkee, Kilmaley, Kilmihil, Kineilty Cross, Lissycasey, Labasheeda, Ogonnelloe, Ruan, Rahey Cross, Tiermaclane and Whitegate.

“This expanded footprint means eircom will invest €400 million in fibre over the next five years, hugely benefitting families and business in the county.

“The National Broadband Plan is a partnership between the commercial sector and the State to deliver high speed broadband to every home, school and business in Ireland. The Government has played a major role in creating the conditions for accelerated telecoms investment by highlighting to broadband providers the potential profit to be made by expanding into rural areas and by securing commitments from them to invest. Today’s investment is a clear indication that eircom recognises the opportunities in this market,” he said.

Deputy Breen added,“The Minister for Communications, Alex White is expected to publish the State intervention strategy in July with a view to moving to formal procurement by the end of this year. It is important that rural communities have the same access to broadband as urban areas and I would hope that the roll-out of the National Broadband Plan can begin as soon as possible”