ESB set to roll out broadband across 500,000 homes

The ESB is to enter the broadband market, with the network being used to roll out high-speed internet to 500,000 homes across rural Ireland.

Communications minister Pat Rabbitte, who introduced the measure as part of a new bill, said it would ease the difficulty people living in rural areas have accessing high-speed broadband.

The move also allows the ESB enter the telecommunications sector.