Internet 'hotspots' to double in number

The number of internet ‘hotspots’ in Ireland is set to reach American levels, it emerged tonight.

Around 500 of the new internet access points will be set up in 24 towns and cities across the country to allow people to access the internet without the need for a phone line.

Eircom said there would be 20 to 30 hotspots in each town, which would increase the overall number in the country to around 1,100 in total.

“That’s one for every 5,500 people in the country. In the US, there’s one for every 13,000 and in the EU 25, there’s one for every 13,000. So Ireland will be up there with the best internationally,” said a spokesman.

The wireless broadband hotspot transmits broadband into the immediate surrounding area, creating a zone of up to 50 metres which allows customers with laptops or personal digital assistants to access e-mail and the Internet without the need for wires or connections.

The hotspot roll out will be implemented with the co-operation of local chambers of commerce.

Some of the locations which already have hotspots include Dublin Airport, Croke Park, the K Club, and Lansdowne Road, as well as restaurant chains such as McDonald’s and Supermac’s.

Galway, Navan, Clonmel, Ballina, Tralee and Tullamore are among the 24 towns and cities selected.