Villages apply for group broadband
The Group Broadband Scheme is open to small towns with fewer than 1,500 people and provides successful applicants with Government funding to implement their own services.
Communications Minister Noel Dempsey said: “The availability of broadband in these areas will reduce the peripherality of many communities and will lead to improved employment opportunities, enhance the sustainability of those communities and will create a more positive environment for inward investment.”
The Government has pledged €25 million towards the scheme in an attempt to bring high-speed, affordable broadband to areas which may otherwise get left behind.
The Government provides 55% capital funding toward the broadband plans - the maximum allowable under EU rules.
The closing date for the first call for applications was yesterday and applications were received from 16 counties.
Mr Dempsey said he was delighted at the level of interest shown from every corner of the country.
He added: “The Government’s commitment of €25m to this scheme underlines our commitment to the development of Ireland as a knowledge and information society.”
Kilbeggan and Kinnegad, Co Westmeath and Gaoth Dobhair, Co Donegal, have already been approved.
Meanwhile, Minister for Children, Brian Lenihan has expressed concern that large numbers of companies do not adhere to industry codes.
In an address to senior executives of Irish ISPs, he warned the Government may be forced to introduce new regulatory measures to combat the situation. The current system of self-regulation is not working as too many providers are not members of the Internet Service Providers Association of Ireland and so do not subscribe to its code.
The minister said the credibility and real effectiveness of self-regulation policy would remain an open question as long as service providers ignored this cornerstone.
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