Irish Telecom News

Dermot Ahern TD, Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources today announced the next phase of the Regional Broadband Programme, which will bring high speed communications links to another 350,000 people. A further 41 towns are to be targeted as part of the Metropolitan Area Networks programme which so far has delivered broadband to 26 large cities and towns around the country. The new programme will cost €55 million, funded 90% by the Government in partnership with local authorities. The initial programme has led to the installation of communications links which are seen as a major driver of inward investment.

The 41 towns are:

Athenry, Ballinasloe, Ballybofey, Bantry, Blarney, Bundoran, Carrigaline, Castleblaney, Castleisland, Castlerea, Claremorris, Clifden, Clones, Cobh, Cahir, Dingle, Donabate, Dunshaughlin, Enniskerry, Furbo, Kenmare, Kilcoole, Kildare, Kinsale, Knock, Longford, Maynooth, Midleton, Mitchelstown, Mountmellick, Nenagh, Newbridge, Rathangan, Ratoath, Sallins, Skerries, Skibereen, Sligo, Tramore, Trim and Youghal.

The Minister’s Department will now issue a Call For Proposals to the local authorities over the next few weeks. Following this, it is expected that the first construction work will commence in the autumn. Projects will be completed within 12 months. A further tranche of towns is expected to be announced in the near future as part of the Government’s expanding broadband action plan. Minister Ahern said: “The networks already in the ground have cost in the region of €65 million but they will repay this investment back ten fold through increased competitiveness, global access and application of cutting edge technology.”

“These networks are placing Ireland at the forefront of the technology revolution, providing the infrastructure to sustain our economic growth and jobs and lead to a better future for everyone.”

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