Irish minister pledges fast broadband for all

Irish minister pledges fast broadband for all

Ireland’s Communication Minister, Pat Rabbitte, has pledged to put the country on the map with regards to its broadband access, with minimum speeds of between 70Mbps and 100Mbps for half the population.

These speeds should be available to all those living in urban or semi-urban locations, said Mr Rabbitte. The next 20 per cent of the population should have access to broadband speeds of at least 40Mbps. He went on to add that every singe home in Ireland should have access to a minimum speed of 30Mbps.

The statement of intent has been made to bring the nation in line with the EU’s Digital Agenda for Europe, which requires all member states to issue broadband plans by the end of the year. Each plan should involve a strategy for ensuring that citizens have minimum connectivity of at least 30Mpbs by 2020.

Ireland will contribute funding of as much as EUR175 million to bring its broadband service up to speed, which is something it says is particularly important for the future of its economy and for business growth. "The precise cost to the State will be subject to the outcome of the procurement process chosen,” stated Mr Rabbitte.

“The source of the State’s contribution will be subject to further consideration and may include the proceeds from the sale of State assets, the National Pensions Reserve Fund and the Strategic Investment Fund."

Many rural regions of the UK are still struggling with slow internet connections and businesses often opt for a leased line alternative to ensure they can compete with rivals that have better connectivity.

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