Rural inequality - Failure to provide broadband

CONSIDERING the growth of modern communications and infrastructure, it is hard to imagine how a single wooden pole placed in the ground 70 years ago heralded what is arguably the most important advance in the creation of modern Ireland.

Saturday last marked the 70th anniversary of that momentous occasion, which saw the raising of the first pole of the Rural Electrification Scheme in Kilsallaghan, North County Dublin. The scheme represented the greatest social revolution in Ireland since the land reforms of the late 19th century. It became a driver of social and economic transformation, ensuring that it wasn’t just Dublin and other cities that would benefit from an increase in industry and trade, but rural Ireland as well.

That spirit of inclusion is sadly lacking now, as high-speed broadband is still a pipe dream for many businesses and households in the countryside. The Government should draw inspiration from those pioneers to ensure a level communications playing field for all parts of Ireland.