High-speed broadband now available for half a million premises
Over 500,000 homes, farms, schools and businesses across the country can now order high-speed fibre broadband, a Fine Gael TD has said.
Deputy Joe Neville, Fine Gael spokesperson on Infrastructure and Delivery, said high speed fibre broadband has been a landmark achievement for rural Ireland.
“Over half a million premises can now order high-speed fibre broadband. This is a significant milestone and will have a lasting impact on rural communities.
“The National Broadband Plan is the biggest investment in rural Ireland since rural electrification. It is transforming towns, villages and communities. We have seen huge momentum the last few years in getting this plan delivered to so many rural areas.
“In terms of infrastructure, this is a massive project undertaken by the State. It had been expected to take until 2027 when the contract was signed in 2019.
“However, despite the worldwide pandemic and constant negative predictions by the naysayers of doom, the vast majority of the broadband roll out will be completed this year.
“High-speed broadband has been a gamechanger for so many. It makes remote working more viable, allows people have access to a range of health and education services, supports smart farming, and so much more. None of this is possible without high-speed broadband.
“It has driven economic growth, community development, and helps businesses to grow and expand.
“The plan is on track and new milestones are being reached in so many counties. We need to keep up the pace and complete the plan on time by the end of 2026.
“Fine Gael proudly introduced the rollout of the National Broadband Plan and was the only party to support it.
Every other party was against it or wanted it abandoned. Where would we be today if they had their way?
“Fine Gael wants to ensure rural Ireland has the same digital opportunities as those in urban areas, and we must keep this momentum going by completing the plan by the end of 2026,” concluded Deputy Neville.