Broadband bellyache for rural Kerry

THE remoteness of parts of Kerry could make creating high-speed internet services difficult, it has emerged.

Up to 20 towns and villages in the county are included in Government plans to bring in new information and attract more investment.

But there could be technical problems, according to experts, because of the remoteness of some areas, especially in Kerry peninsulas.

Dingle and Kenmare are among 41 towns nationally with a population of more than 1,500, which are entitled to Government grant aid in establishing a broadband network.

The successful installation of broadband would mean that huge volumes of information could be transferred electronically throughout the county at a much greater speed.

As well as that, broadband could help remove problems associated with remoteness, particularly in southern and western parts of the county.

The Government is inviting proposals from telecom operators and September 27 is the closing date for applications.

The network could be in operation in 20 Kerry towns and villages within six months, but it will be 18 months before the complete network is functioning.

Current proposals with the Dept of Communications provide for a broadband service to 78% of households and 81% of businesses in the county.