Job fears over poor broadband access

POOR broadband access in Co Tipperary could result in the loss of up to 150 jobs, the Dáil heard yesterday.

Fine Gael TD Tom Hayes claimed four firms in his Tipperary South constituency had threatened to relocate elsewhere because of delays in the roll-out of the communications technology. “There is a huge crisis in many small towns and villages throughout the country in relation to broadband,” he said.

Mr Hayes said he had letters from four companies in his constituency who were going to relocate 150 jobs in coming months if local access to broadband isn’t established.

Referring to Government inaction on the issue, he told the Dáil: “We’ve had commitments and statements but no movement.”

Ceann Comhairle John O’Donoghue immediately ruled the issue out of order.

However, Arts, Sport and Tourism Minister Seamus Brennan, who was representing the Government in the Dáil, said legislation was published last year which dealt with some issues Mr Hayes raised.

Meanwhile, Limerick Co Council has made a breakthrough in planning to secure broadband connection to rural areas.

The council yesterday confirmed it was about to sign a deal with a broadband company who will be given the use of water towers dotted around the county to facilitate the beaming of signals to every corner of rural Limerick. Fianna Fáil TD Niall Collins put the idea to the council last summer.

Mr Collins disclosed he has been informed by the council that a deal is about to be struck with a private operator. He said: “This will allow the beaming of signals from the council’s infrastructure of 57 water towers spread throughout the county. This will give blanket coverage of the county for people wanting broadband connection. The inadequacy of broadband is a major issue and was a major issue on the doorstep during last year’s general election.

“While the bigger centres of population are being looked after under the Metropolitan Area Networks programme, rural residents have been totally neglected,” he said.

The council advertised for expressions of interest and received responses from 12 different companies. Of those, six proceeded with formal tenders. The initial contract will allow the winning company exclusive use of the water towers for an 18 month period and after that period other entrants will be permitted.

“I raised this issue of lack of broadband in rural areas in Dáil Éireann recently, arising from which the CEO of Eircom asked to meet me in relation to my concerns in Co Limerick. The county council’s proposed public private partnership is a very positive step forward and should serve as a model for other counties and local authorities,” said Mr Collins.