Broadband extended to 41 towns
A further 41 towns are to be targeted as part of the Metropolitan Area Networks programme to deliver broadband communication access throughout the State.
The new programme - funded 90% by the Government in partnership with local authorities - will cost €55m and will bring high speed links to 350,000 people.
So far, broadband has been delivered to 26 large cities and towns around the country.
The initial programme has led to the installation of communications links which are seen as a major driver of inward investment.
The latest 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 Department of Communications will now issue a Call For Proposals to the local authorities over the next few weeks.
It is then expected that construction work will begin in the autumn.
Projects will be completed within 12 months.
More towns are expected to be named in the future as part of the Government’s expanding broadband action plan.
Communications Minister Dermot Ahern said today: "The networks already in the ground have cost in the region of €65m 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."
