Limerick set for wireless broadband roll-out
Broadband availability allows people to work from home without the frustrations of dial-up internet access.
For commuting workers, it can relieve peak traffic congestion and allow for more flexible childcare arrangements.
However, cable-connected broadband has been greatly limited by phone line quality and distance from phone exchanges, and many rural dwellers still have no access.
Limerick County Council has confirmed that it is in final negotiations to bring broadband to every county rural area.
Senior engineer Donal Brennan said that, having taken over the rural water schemes in the county, the council now controls 50 water reservoirs throughout Co Limerick and it is about to sign a contract with a broadband provider for the use of these reservoirs to distribute broadband.
He said reservoirs serve an average area of 55 square kilometres, and predicted, “Within a year, there will be broadband coverage throughout the county.”
Widespread broadband availability would be welcomed by many farmers, who are being encouraged by the Department of Agriculture to make use of the online processes to eliminate the paper work in calf registrations and scheme applications.
