An initiative aimed at making broadband access available to every home and business in the country by the end of next year is being announced today.
The Minister for Communications has said he will be taking measures to speed up the roll out of next generation, high speed, internet access.
The Government claims a mix of private and public investment has resulted in broadband internet access coverage to 99% of the country.
However, the remaining 1% will be the focus of the scheme being announced this morning.
There is a National Broadband Scheme but un-served locations, which are extremely remote or cannot be served for technical reasons, will be targeted and a service provider identified by the Government.
Minister Pat Rabbitte says his Department will accept applications for a three month period starting today, people who cannot obtain a broadband service are being encouraged to make contact.
The Rural Broadband Scheme will the Government says help promote economic and social development in rural areas.
Mr Rabbitte says the scheme will ensure broadband is available to anyone who wants it by the end of 2012.
Posted on RTE.ie 07th May 2011
