Three new broadband connection points have been installed in Clare as part of the Government’s National Broadband Plan.
The local Broadband Connection Points (BCPs), which are located at the Michael Cusack Visitor Centre, Cree Community Centre and Loop Head Lighthouse, were installed over a three-day period in the middle of last month.
The announcement was made by Clare TD Joe Carey this morning. Deputy Carey said: “Broadband Connection Points are among the first premises to be connected under the National Broadband Plan and are located in some of the most isolated and rural communities in the country.
“They will provide communities across Clare with free high-speed internet access at publicly-accessible sites under the Government’s new Connected Communities initiative.
“The COVID-19 crisis has shown the value of digital technology in enabling workers, businesses and families in Clare to stay connected and in touch with each other. The BCPs are intended to bring people together through digital connectivity, and it’s that togetherness that I want to emphasise.
“When people can work from their own communities here in Clare, they can maintain the close connections that matter most: family, friends, community, and their homes.
“More than that, they can support local businesses, sports and community groups, all of which contributes to sustainable communities.”
The Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys, added: “The launch of the first of the Broadband Connection Points under the Connected Communities initiative represents an investment in rural futures and recognises the contribution that rural Ireland makes to the culture, innovation and economy of our country. More than 50 locations have already been connected by Vodafone Ireland and NBI, with more sites to be installed each week from now until the end of the year and beyond.”
