Rural groups move to end digital isolation
If the trials are successful, the partners propose to roll out a national network over the next couple of years, which would offer a service well over the national target speeds of 30 mega-bytes per second (Mbps) download and 10 Mbps upload.
“The LEADER companies decided to launch the innovative project because, as community-based companies, LEADER has become increasingly concerned at the tangible consequences of the digital isolation of rural Ireland’s businesses and residents highlighted in recent reports,” said Niall Morrissey, CEO, South Tipperary Development Company, which will initiate technical trial testing in the Knockmealdown region within months.
Formal agreement on the trial was signed between STDC and Wuhan Vstar recently.
Mr Morrissey said LEADER companies support and welcome the state’s National Broadband Plan, but are concerned at possible delivery delays.
Kilkenny LEADER will also trial the Wuhan Vstar broadband, in the northwest of the county.
Local LEADER CEO Declan Rice said the trials are at no cost to LEADER and if they are successful, high speed broadband will be offered, costing no more than currently available services.
He said the Wuhan Vstar technology can send signals over 15km.
A technical trial testing in the Lismore and Ring has been agreed by Waterford LEADER Partnership Ltd and Wuhan Vstar.
LEADER Company Chair Michael J Walsh said, “Rural Ireland’s communities cannot afford in either economic or social terms, to wait on others, no matter how well-intentioned, to address the broadband gap”.
The broadband will also be tested in the Taghmon area of Co Wexford, following agreement between Wexford Local Development and Wuhan Vstar.
